Mass exodus from Nagorno-Karabakh: Over 70,000 displaced people seek refuge in Armenia

The escalating crisis in Nagorno-Karabakh has resulted in significant human displacement, with over 70,500 people seeking refuge in Armenia, according to Armenpress. The intensity of this influx shows no signs of abating, indicating a profound humanitarian and administrative challenge.

Nazeli Baghdasaryan, spokeswoman for the Prime Minister, confirmed at a press conference that the number of displaced persons continues to rise. Of the 70,500 people who have entered Armenia, 50,866 have been registered, while efforts to account for the remaining refugees are ongoing, with approximately 1,000 people being registered and assisted every hour.

This mass displacement is occurring in the context of a significant political upheaval in Nagorno-Karabakh. President Samvel Shahramanyan has signed an order to dissolve all state institutions and organizations in the territory by January 1, 2024. This drastic measure implies a comprehensive restructuring of the region's governmental and administrative structure.

"The population of Nagorno-Karabakh will become familiar with the conditions of reintegration presented by Azerbaijan after this decree comes into force," the decree reads. This development alludes to a complex political, administrative, and humanitarian landscape unfolding in the midst of territorial and governance disputes.

The Armenian authorities are faced with the monumental task of managing an abrupt and massive influx of displaced persons. Humanitarian assistance, shelter and administrative processing are among the top priorities to address the immediate needs of those fleeing Nagorno-Karabakh. International observers and aid agencies are closely monitoring the situation as the political and humanitarian crises converge.

As Armenia grapples with the logistics and implications of the ongoing displacement, questions about the future of Nagorno-Karabakh and its people loom large. The dissolution of its state institutions underscores the profound transformation the region is about to undergo.