News - Trial of Artsakh Leaders in Baku: Proceedings and Controversies

On December 22, the trial involving key Artsakh military and political leaders in Baku advanced under the controversial oversight of Judge Zeynal Aghayev. This legal proceeding falls into international scrutiny, as it predominantly features charges that span multiple severe articles of Azerbaijan’s Criminal Code. Twenty-two individuals associated with Artsakh’s governmental and military infrastructure have been implicated. Former Artsakh Foreign Minister Davit Babayan and ex-defender Levon Mnatsakanyan, both integral figures in Artsakh's recent history, ardently maintained their innocence against the allegations. The judicial proceedings have come under global attention due to the restricted media coverage primarily involving Azerbaijani state-run outlets, raising concerns about transparency and the equitable administration of justice. Legal observers point out that substantial restrictions on independent reporting make it challenging to independently corroborate trial developments or to verify the fairness of legal processes from diverse perspectives outside of Azerbaijani narratives. Among the allegations are severe charges ranging from actions undermining Azerbaijani sovereignty during Artsakh's historical disputes to accusations related to armed conflict actions dating back to the early 1990s. This trial arguably represents a pivotal moment in post-conflict international legal dynamics, intensifying discussions on jurisdictional reach and the treatment of wartime acts. International human rights bodies have expressed reservations about both the trial’s conduct and the broader implications of trying individuals in a setting heavily influenced by complex geopolitical dynamics. This legal battle further reignites dialogues concerning post-ceasefire justice, reconciliation, and the lawful handling of wartime leadership accused of enduring political and military decisions. As the trial resumes on December 23, expectations are high regarding potential developments and their repercussions on regional diplomacy, with global stakeholders earnestly watching these proceedings that encapsulate broader disputes and test the frameworks of international justice systems in conflict zones.