Diplomacy Journal Kim Tae Yeon | Six years have passed since the Patriotic War began on 27 September 2020. In Azerbaijan, the date is observed as Remembrance Day, commemorating with deep respect and gratitude the memory of those who sacrificed their lives for the country’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
The day holds profound significance in Azerbaijan’s modern history. It commemorates those who lost their lives during the 44-day Patriotic War, which became a defining turning point for the country. The war resulted in the restoration of its territorial integrity and sovereignty.
The outcome of the conflict was made possible through the leadership of the country’s President and Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev, the solidarity of the Azerbaijani people, and the courage, professionalism, and dedication demonstrated by the country’s armed forces.
The establishment of 27 September as Remembrance Day reflects the importance attached at both the state and national levels to preserving the memory of those who gavetheir lives for the Motherland. Each year, the day provides an opportunity to honor the fallen, while also paying tribute to military personnel and veterans who demonstrated courage and dedication during the conflict.
Six years after the beginning of the Patriotic War, 27 September also remains significant in addressing the severe humanitarian consequences of the conflict, bringing to justice those who committed war crimes resulting in loss of life, and restoring rights violated for many years.
During the Patriotic War, the armed forces of Armenia shelled densely populated Azerbaijani settlements, particularly Ganja, Barda, Naftalan, and Tartar, as well as other cities and districts, using heavy artillery and internationally prohibited long-range missile systems. These attacks resulted in civilian casualties and injuries and caused serious damage to residential buildings and other civilian infrastructure, including social, educational, healthcare, religious, and other facilities.
Addressing the consequences of the conflict therefore remains an important part of the legacy of Remembrance Day.
Since the end of the Patriotic War, Azerbaijan has undertaken extensive efforts to restore and reconstruct the territories liberated from occupation. These efforts have included rebuilding infrastructure, addressing the humanitarian consequences of the conflict, and working to eliminate the threat posed by landmines and unexploded ordnance.
Another central objective has been facilitating the safe and dignified return of former internally displaced persons to their native communities. At the same time, efforts continue to determine the fate of people who went missing during the conflict, an issue that remains an important humanitarian concern for affected families.
Also, strengthening Azerbaijan’s security and ensuring lasting peace in the region are important ways of honoring the sacrifices made during the war. The remembrance of the Azerbaijani heroes who lost their lives or suffered injuries reflects the values for which they fought: independence, territorial integrity, and sovereignty.
In this context, the significant results achieved in advancing the peace agenda, including the finalization of the peace treaty between Azerbaijan and Armenia, are of particular importance for the future of the region as a whole. This process creates new opportunities for strengthening sustainable and long-term peace, stability, security, and cooperation.
The sacrifices made in the name of Azerbaijan remain an important part of the country’s historical and moral legacy, to be passed from one generation to the next. They serve as a reminder of the human cost of conflict and the importance attached to the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. In this regard, 27 September – Remembrance Day stands as an occasion for reflection, gratitude, and respect for the sacred memory of the heroes of the Patriotic War, while also looking toward a future of sustainable peace, stability, security, and cooperation.
