Khankendi — The Ombudsman Institution of the Republic of Azerbaijan a member institution of OICOA and Karabakh University jointly organized a commemorative event in Khankendi to mark the 34th anniversary of the Khojaly tragedy, with the participation of academic staff and students, as well as media representatives.
The event opened with the performance of the national anthem, followed by a one-minute moment of silence in memory of the victims.
In her address, Ombudsman Sabina Aliyeva stated that the Khojaly tragedy has left an enduring mark on Azerbaijan’s historical memory and described it as a grave violation of the norms and principles of international law and international humanitarian law. Recalling the events of 25–26 February 1992, she noted that civilians were killed and large numbers of people were forcibly displaced, emphasizing the broader human impact of the tragedy.
The Ombudsman further stated that the first political and legal assessment of the events was made at the initiative of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, and that consistent efforts were later undertaken to promote international awareness and recognition. She also referenced the role of the “Justice for Khojaly” campaign implemented by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation.
Ombudsman Aliyeva added that, following Azerbaijan’s recent victory under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, the country’s territorial integrity and sovereignty have been restored and that individuals accused of war crimes have been brought to justice.
Shahin Bayramov, Rector of Karabakh University, described the commemoration as a significant act of national remembrance and noted the symbolic importance of holding the event at a university based in Khankendi. He highlighted the institution’s focus on educating students in the spirit of historical truth and patriotism, and its role as a center contributing to the region’s scientific, social, and intellectual development.
A keynote testimony was delivered by Füqurə Rüstamova, sister of Azerbaijan’s National Hero Fuzuli Rustamov and a witness to the events, who shared her personal recollections and urged young people to preserve historical memory and convey the truth to future generations
A documentary video on the Khojaly tragedy was screened during the program, after which the Ombudsman’s official statement on the occasion was read out.
Following the event, the Ombudsman Office donated new digital printing equipment to Karabakh University to support the University’s ongoing activities.
