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New Year. Old Problems. New Approaches?

New Year’s Eve in Stepanakert (Photo: Marut Vanian/Twitter)

I have always found it fascinating how we attribute such importance to the changing of the year. It is a great study in the psychology of humans to witness the refresh of thinking and commitments that takes place during the new year transition. Politicians speak of optimism, and individuals declare improvements in their personal lives that have evaded them to date. We ended 2022 on a humiliating note with the genocide motivated blockage of the peaceful citizens of Artsakh. We also learned that Russia will play dangerous politics with their responsibility and commitment to keep the Lachin Corridor open and free of intimidation. Apparently, only the Armenians play by the established rule. Perhaps there is an important message there. Well, 2023 has arrived, and the problems remain in place. If the New Year arrival motivates us to re-examine our approach, then perhaps it does add some value. In case there is anyone left on this earth who believes Azerbaijan wants peace and friendly relations with Armenia, take a good look at the genocidal blockade of the lifeline of our people.

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Stepan Piligian

Stepan Piligian was raised in the Armenian community of Indian Orchard, Massachusetts, at the St. Gregory Parish. A former member of the AYF Central Executive, he is active in the Armenian community. Currently, he serves on the board of the Armenian Heritage Foundation. Stepan is a retired executive in the computer storage industry and resides in the Boston area with his wife Susan. He has spent many years as a volunteer teacher of Armenian history and contemporary issues to the young generation and adults at schools, camps and churches. His interests include the Armenian diaspora, Armenia, sports and reading.

3 Comments

  1. An ongoing daily protest in front of the Azeri embassy in Washington DC would be a good place to start. I hope the ANCA leadership will organize such an action and encourage Armenians from throughout the US to take part. Let’s blockade their embassy and see how they like it. This could also inspire Armenians in other countries to do the same.

    1. İts dangerous during 44 days artsakh war our diaspora in middle east lebanon uae kuwait jordan attacked by pro turkish arabs alot of armenians injured shops damaged modern civilzed western world didnt say anything against our peaceful protest their embassies this could be useful in democratic countries not in middle east or asia,dont ask me why undemocratic anti democratic countries in UN

  2. One new approach to help practically and morally the people of Artsakh is to have a caravan of Armenian priests driving from Armenia to Stepanakert, accompanied by media from around the world. The purpose of the caravan is for the Church to conduct services for Christmas. Let Russia and Azerbaijan stop Armenians from practicing their religion in Artsakh. Let the whole world see that. The Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN) has been reporting on the blockade. The Vatican has spoken out against it. This would be part of a larger nonviolent strategy coordinated by the Armenian government to bring pressure on Russia and Azerbaijan. It can be coordinated with Diaspora organizations to have world wide demonstrations at Azeri embassies. All the necessary elements are in place to do this. It just requires the leadership, will and vision. Meanwhile Armenia has to prepare for the coming invasion of Syunik in the Spring 2023 by Azerbaijan

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