Council of Europe Commissioner urges long-term support for Artsakh Armenians displaced to Armenia

(Horizon Media / STRASBOURG) — Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights Michael O’Flaherty has called on Armenian authorities and the international community to ensure sustained support and long-term integration measures for Artsakh Armenians displaced to Armenia.

In a memorandum released following his February visit to Armenia, the Commissioner welcomed the Armenian government’s initial response to the mass displacement, including measures to facilitate access to citizenship, temporary protection, housing assistance, rental subsidies, school enrolment, employment and entrepreneurship support.

By February 2026, more than 20,000 Artsakh Armenians had obtained Armenian citizenship, and no applications had been rejected. Temporary protection status also remains available for those who have not yet acquired citizenship.

At the same time, O’Flaherty warned that many displaced Artsakh Armenians continue to face serious difficulties in accessing full rights and opportunities in Armenia. He pointed to challenges related to citizenship, missing or difficult-to-restore identity documents, access to pensions, employment, education and housing. The Commissioner also raised concerns about the recent reduction in monthly rental subsidies and the gap between available housing support and property prices in areas with employment opportunities.

The memorandum stresses the need for a comprehensive, human rights-based integration strategy developed in consultation with Artsakh Armenians. It also calls for continued support for vulnerable groups, including displaced women and girls, who face heightened risks of violence and increased social and economic pressures.

The Commissioner also noted that the right of return to Artsakh remains important for many displaced Armenians. In the context of the ongoing peace process, he urged Armenian authorities to ensure that Artsakh Armenians are fully informed and supported in making free choices about their future.

O’Flaherty called on the international community to remain engaged and help sustain progress in integrating Artsakh Armenians into Armenia.