Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
27 September 2023 | 10:34am SAST
1-min read

During the Media Lens with Brother Ibrahim Deen on Radio Islam International, the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia was discussed. The interview covered the historical context, recent developments, media coverage, and the impact on the lives of those affected.

Nagorno-Karabakh, a South Caucasus region, has been a focal point of conflict, with its roots tracing back to the dissolution of the Soviet Union. This region, internationally recognised as part of Azerbaijan, has seen a long-standing desire for independence and a dream of reunification with Armenia. The early 1990s witnessed a devastating conflict in which tens of thousands lost their lives.

The historical contestation over borders, mountainous terrain, and the intermingling of different ethnicities, faiths, and religions have compounded the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Armenia sought sovereignty over the region, leading to clashes in the 1990s. Additionally, hundreds of thousands of Azerbaijanis were forced out of Armenia in the post-Soviet era.

In 2020, a fresh wave of turmoil engulfed the region. This escalation was exacerbated by a weakened Russia due to its involvement in the Ukraine crisis.

The recent developments have forced many ethnic Armenians to leave Nagorno-Karabakh and seek refuge in Armenia. The situation in border areas, where ethnicity and religion play defining roles, remains complex. The international community is advocating for integration, while acknowledging that significant resettlement may occur.

Media coverage of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict has raised concerns about bias and lack of context. Western-dominated press often fails to mention the international law perspective, which recognises the region as part of Azerbaijan. Additionally, there is limited contextualisation, with little mention of Azerbaijanis who fought for Armenia in the 1990s when Armenia was perceived as a stronger power.

The conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh is a complex issue with historical, geopolitical, and humanitarian dimensions. Balancing the rights and interests of ordinary citizens and civilians remains a significant challenge.

Listen to the Media Lens on Sabaahul Muslim with Apa Annisa Essack.