Fact Check: Both Artsakh and Azerbaijan committed serious atrocities against civilians during the Nagorno-Karabakh war

Atrocities Committed by Both Artsakh and Azerbaijan During the Nagorno-Karabakh War: A Fact-Check

Introduction

The claim that "both Artsakh and Azerbaijan committed serious atrocities against civilians during the Nagorno-Karabakh war" has emerged in discussions surrounding the conflict that escalated in 2020. This assertion raises important questions about the nature of the violence that occurred, the parties involved, and the broader implications for human rights and international law.

What We Know

1. Conflict Overview: The Second Nagorno-Karabakh War, also known as the "Forty-Four Day War," took place from September 27 to November 10, 2020, primarily between Azerbaijan and ethnic Armenian forces in the self-declared Republic of Artsakh. The war resulted in significant territorial changes and a humanitarian crisis, including civilian casualties and displacement 19.

2. Reported Atrocities by Artsakh: Various sources indicate that Armenian forces, including those from Artsakh, engaged in attacks that resulted in civilian casualties. For instance, reports detail shelling of Azerbaijani towns such as Shikharkh and Barda, resulting in civilian injuries and property damage 36. A research project conducted in collaboration with Columbia University documented these incidents, highlighting the suffering of civilians due to military actions 25.

3. Reported Atrocities by Azerbaijan: Conversely, Azerbaijani forces have also been accused of committing war crimes, including indiscriminate attacks on civilian areas. Human Rights Watch reported that Azerbaijani forces targeted civilian infrastructure in Stepanakert, the capital of Artsakh, which is a violation of international humanitarian law 6. Additionally, there are claims of ethnic cleansing against Armenians following the war, particularly after Azerbaijan's recent military actions in September 2023 47.

4. Humanitarian Impact: The conflict has led to significant humanitarian crises, including the displacement of over 100,000 people and numerous civilian deaths on both sides 58. Legal experts have suggested that actions taken during and after the conflict may amount to war crimes, particularly concerning the treatment of ethnic Armenians 4.

Analysis

The claim that both sides committed atrocities is supported by a range of sources, but the reliability and bias of these sources vary:

• Wikipedia Articles: While Wikipedia can provide a broad overview, its content is user-generated and may lack rigorous peer review. The articles on the Second Nagorno-Karabakh War and war crimes provide a starting point but should be corroborated with primary sources 13.

• Human Rights Organizations: Reports from organizations like Human Rights Watch and the Institute for the Study of Human Rights are generally considered credible due to their investigative methodologies and adherence to international human rights standards. However, potential biases exist, as these organizations often advocate for specific narratives regarding human rights abuses 67.

• Academic Research: The research conducted in partnership with Columbia University is likely to be more reliable due to its academic rigor, but it may also reflect the perspectives of its authors, who may have vested interests in the outcomes of the conflict 25.

• News Outlets: Articles from established news organizations like Reuters provide timely reporting but may lack the depth of analysis found in academic or human rights reports. Their coverage can also be influenced by the geopolitical context and the narratives they choose to emphasize 4.

Methodological Concerns

The methodologies used in documenting atrocities can vary significantly. Some reports rely on eyewitness accounts, while others may use satellite imagery or forensic evidence. The credibility of these methodologies is crucial in assessing the validity of the claims made. For instance, reports that rely solely on anonymous sources or unverified testimonies may be less reliable.

Conclusion

Verdict: True

The evidence supports the conclusion that both Artsakh and Azerbaijan committed serious atrocities against civilians during the Nagorno-Karabakh war. Reports from credible human rights organizations and academic research indicate that both sides engaged in actions that resulted in civilian casualties and violations of international humanitarian law.

However, it is essential to recognize the complexity of the situation. The sources of information vary in reliability and potential bias, which can affect the interpretation of events. While the evidence is substantial, it is also subject to the limitations of available data, including the challenges of verifying eyewitness accounts and the potential for political motivations behind certain reports.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate the information presented and consider the broader context of the conflict, including the ongoing humanitarian crises and the implications for international law. The situation remains fluid, and new developments may further illuminate the actions of both parties involved.