Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights Dunja Mijatovic published her Observations following her visit to Armenia and Azerbaijan, including the Karabakh region, from 16 to October 23, 2023. The findings revealed the aftermath of the mass displacement of over 101,000 Karabakh Armenians in September. She emphasized the need for both Armenian and Azerbaijani authorities to prioritize human rights protection in peace talks and establish robust safeguards for all those affected by the conflict. 

She underscored the importance of ensuring the displaced Armenians, especially vulnerable groups, receive necessary support in the short, medium, and long term. While acknowledging Armenia’s efforts, Mijatovic urged CoE member states to provide financial support to address humanitarian needs. She emphasized the displaced Armenians’ right to return safely and with dignity, exploring flexible solutions for citizenship and legal status. Mijatovic called for measures, including security guarantees and allowing temporary access to homes and graveyards. Azerbaijani authorities were urged to protect the property left by Karabakh Armenians. The Commissioner welcomed steps by Azerbaijan for IDP returns, emphasizing the universal right of displaced persons to return voluntarily, safely, and with dignity. 

“All allegations of breaches of international humanitarian law and serious human rights violations reported in relation to the conflict need to be effectively and promptly investigated, the perpetrators brought to justice, and if found guilty after a fair, independent, and impartial trial, sentenced and punished. This includes allegations relating to the circumstances of the blocking of the Lachin corridor, the mass displacement of Karabakh Armenians, and the military operation of 19 to September 20", added the Commissioner, adding that the investigations should ensure justice through a victim-centered approach. 

The Observations also covered issues like mine protection, the situation of detained persons, clarifying the fate of missing individuals, and combating hate speech while promoting mutual understanding and trust, "including by involving civil society in establishing human rights-compliant memorialization and reconciliation processes.”