British MPs launch inquiry into destruction of cultural heritage in Nagorno-Karabakh

ArmInfo. A group of British parliamentarians, with the support of the International Bar Association's Human Rights Institute (IBAHRI) and external experts, has launched an investigation into crimes committed by Azerbaijan in Artsakh. The first meeting of this body was held on February 23.

As stated on the official website of the investigative body, "the Nagorno-Karabakh Inquiry is an inquiry into the destruction of cultural heritage into the region Nagorno-Karabakh. Acts of intentional destruction to cultural heritage are increasingly prevalent during or in the aftermath of armed conflict. Cultural heritage constitutes a unique and important testimony of the culture and identities of people. The degradation and destruction of cultural heritage - whether tangible or intangible - constitutes a loss to the affected communities, as well as to the international community as a whole.

Aims of the Inquiry

The aims of the Inquiry are to:

Consider the scale and nature of destruction of cultural heritage in Nagorno-Karabakh since the escalation of the conflict in 2023, and the attempt to erase the traces of the presence of Armenians in the Nagorno- Karabakh, focusing on recent occurrences, and mapping developing trends.

Explore the legal responses taken to date, with a particular focus on good practices, failed responses, and identifying gaps requiring attention.

Identify justice and accountability avenues for legal recourse that could be taken.

Engage the UK Government and international actors with recommendations on assistance to the community.

Objective

The main objective of this Inquiry is to consider the issue of the destruction of cultural heritage of the Armenian people in the Nagorno-Karabakh since 2023, the legal responses taken and those that could be taken to address it, as a matter of urgent international concern. It is also to provide a platform to victims/survivors and civil society organisations working with them to ensure that they shape the recommendations for the UK Government.

Methodology

The Inquiry is to proceed in five stages:

First, it would undertake a short mapping exercise identifying the evidence in relation to cultural destruction in Nagorno-Karabakh and information available in relation to the legal responses.

Second, it would conduct an open call for submissions relating to evidence, facts on the ground and the application of relevant law.

Third, it would organise 2-3 hearings with experts and witnesses.

Fourth, the Inquiry will publish a report on its findings and recommendations.

Fifth, it would engage the UK Government, other States, and international organisations with the findings and recommendations throughout the inquiry and upon completion of the Inquiry.

The Committee is composed of: Brendan O'Hara MP (Chair), Member, House of Commons, Baroness Helena Kennedy KC Peer, House of Lords, John Whittingdale, Member, House of Commons,  Jessica Morden Member, House of Commons, Lord McInnes Peer, House of Lords, Lord Alton Peer, House of Lords, Baroness Hooper Peer, House of Lords, Aine Macdonald IBAHRI Programme  Coordinator.