UN Report: 100,000 Refugees Unable to Return to Nagorno-Karabakh

Displacement Crisis

A new UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) report reveals the ongoing humanitarian crisis affecting over 100,000 ethnic Armenians who fled Nagorno-Karabakh in September 2023. The report highlights systematic obstacles to return and integration challenges in Armenia.

Key Findings

Current Situation

• 100,000+ refugees in Armenia
• 65% living in temporary accommodation
• 40% unemployment rate among refugees
• 78% report trauma-related health issues

Obstacles to Return

1. Security Concerns: Fear of persecution and violence
2. Property Rights: Homes destroyed or occupied
3. Cultural Heritage: Religious sites converted or demolished
4. Documentation: Identity papers not recognized

Living Conditions

In Armenia

Refugees face:

• Overcrowded temporary housing
• Limited access to healthcare
• Children’s education disrupted
• Winter humanitarian needs unmet

“We left everything behind. Our homes, our history, our graveyards. How can we return when our very existence is denied?” - Refugee interviewed by UNHCR

International Aid

Funding Gap: Only 45% of required $97 million raised

• EU: $30 million
• US: $12 million
• Other donors: $8 million

Long-term Implications

Demographic Changes

• Complete ethnic Armenian exodus from region
• Azerbaijani settlement policies
• Cultural heritage at risk
• Historical precedent concerns

Regional Stability

The refugee crisis affects:

• Armenia’s economic capacity
• Regional demographic balance
• Future reconciliation prospects
• International legal precedents

Recommendations

The UNHCR report calls for:

1. International protection mechanisms
2. Increased humanitarian funding
3. Property restitution framework
4. Cultural heritage preservation
5. Long-term integration support

The situation remains one of Europe’s largest displacement crises, with no immediate solution in sight.