Why Armenia Lacks Global Support in the Nagorno Karabakh Conflict

The recent conflict over Nagorno Karabakh has put Armenia in an internationally isolated position, leaving the country to face the consequences of its unrecognized sovereignty and territorial disputes. While some nations and influential figures have expressed their support, the global community as a whole remains largely unengaged, with many attributing Armenia's current predicament to its own actions and international relations.

Historical Context and Involvement in Peace Efforts

The conflict over Nagorno Karabakh between Armenia and Azerbaijan dates back to the early 1990s, when the dissolution of the Soviet Union led to an eruption of hostilities. Initially, international efforts to resolve the conflict centered around the Minsk Group, which included France, Russia, the United States, and various other nations. The aim was to facilitate a peaceful resolution and restore the status quo ante bellum.

However, these efforts have been largely unsuccessful. In 2020, a new round of hostilities erupted, leading to significant territorial changes. Azerbaijan's military offensive resulted in the capture of much of Nagorno Karabakh, and the ceasefire agreed upon in May 2020 has since been repeatedly violated.

Global Inaction and Criticism

Armenia's international isolation in this conflict has been further exacerbated by its lack of significant global support. The world, particularly major powerhouses like Russia and France, have chosen not to take a direct stance in favor of Armenia. This inaction is rooted in several factors:

Declining Support from Major Powers: France's role as co-chair of the Minsk Group has been criticized. The French Senate's recognition of Nagorno Karabakh's independence further fueled Azerbaijani suspicions, adding to the regional tensions.

Russian Pro-Status Quo Stance: Russia, despite its historical alliance with Armenia, has not actively supported the country in the Nagorno Karabakh conflict. Instead, it has maintained a neutral stance, focusing on its own interests and the broader geopolitical challenges in the region.

Domestic Concerns and Public Sentiments

Internally, the situation in Armenia has further deteriorated. The country faces significant challenges, including a population exodus and growing unrest. The increasing number of Armenians leaving the country, often in fear of continued conflict and instability, paints a picture of a failing state. This exodus is a direct consequence of the ongoing war and the perceived lack of international support to ensure stability and security.

Population Exodus and Decline in State Strength: With a significant portion of its population emigrating, Armenia is at risk of becoming a failed state. The exodus is driven by a lack of faith in the government's ability to protect its citizens and secure its territorial integrity.

Conclusion and Reflection

The ongoing Nagorno Karabakh conflict highlights the complex interplay of international relations, domestic politics, and regional dynamics. Armenia's isolation and the lack of global support reflect a broader trend of nations being more preoccupied with internal challenges and geopolitical interests than traditional conflict resolution. As the situation remains tense, there is a need for reevaluation of international approaches to conflicts in the post-Cold War era.

Future efforts to resolve the Nagorno Karabakh conflict will require a deeper understanding of the historical context and a more nuanced approach to addressing the interests and concerns of all parties involved. Only then can there be hope for a lasting peace in the region.