Resolution of the Fifth Congress of Armenians of Karabakh

History

Resolution of the Fifth Congress of Armenians of Karabakh On the Non-Compliance with the Azerbaijani-Appointed Temporary Governor-General and the Necessity of a Referendum Shushi, April 23–24, 1919

Without opposing the right to self-determination of the neighboring Turkic people, and holding the view that all territorial disputes should be resolved definitively at the Peace Conference, the Armenians of Karabakh assert the same right to self-determination for themselves.

The Fifth Congress of Armenians of Karabakh deems it necessary to declare, with regard to the extension of the authority of the Azerbaijani Governor-General over them, that Azerbaijan has always served as an accomplice in the atrocities committed by Turkey against Armenians in general and against the Armenians of Karabakh in particular—an attitude that persists to this day.

Azerbaijan, both historically and currently, remains aligned with Turkish interests. It was Azerbaijan that invited the Turks into the Caucasus and facilitated the treacherous betrayal in the rear of the front lines, resulting in the dissolution of the Transcaucasus and allowing the Turks to advance triumphantly into the region. This “state” continues to dream of bringing the Turks back and persistently persecutes Armenians.

The economic boycott introduced following the arrival of Turkish pashas has been institutionalized by the Azerbaijani government as a means of exerting pressure on Armenians.

Banditry, robbery, murder, and attacks on Armenians along the roads are regularly employed by Azerbaijan as tools to achieve its goals. These acts of violence occur at a time when Karabakh Armenians are not yet under Azerbaijani rule, and while powerful British representatives—entrusted with our protection—are still present among us.

We are convinced that contemporary Azerbaijan, emulating its elder brother Turkey, seeks to eliminate the Armenians, who stand as the sole cultural group gravitating toward Europe rather than the East—especially the Armenians of Karabakh, who have thus far preserved their freedom and resisted destruction and barbarity.

Moreover, the Congress believes that the political, historical, cultural-legal, and particularly economic conditions of the Armenians of Karabakh do not in any way justify the imposition of Azerbaijani administrative authority—even on a temporary basis.

In light of all this, the Fifth Congress of Armenians of Karabakh considers it impossible to accept any administrative structure connected to Azerbaijan.

Regarding the restoration of transportation links, the Congress asserts that this has no bearing on the recognition of the authority of the Azerbaijani Governor-General, since the ability to move freely throughout the transportation network of the Caucasus is vital for the region, which constitutes an economic unit.

We firmly believe that British efforts to secure peace in the Caucasus would create the necessary conditions for normal economic life in the region.

The issue of nomadic migrations along the borders of Armenian Karabakh was favorably resolved even during the siege of Karabakh by Turkish-Azerbaijani bands, at the time of their assault on Baku. This issue would not be so acute now had the Armenians of Karabakh not been forcibly pressured to recognize Azerbaijani authority.

Enclosing the unanimously adopted resolution signed by all delegates, the Fifth Congress of Karabakh informs that its decision is based on the firm and unwavering will of the people who elected them—a fact that the British command can verify through a nationwide referendum, if desired.

Fully aware that in matters of major political significance, cultural and economic factors carry great weight, the Fifth Congress is deeply convinced that Great Britain, through its Caucasian command, will not compel Armenians to submit to the khanate oppression of Azerbaijan—a yoke they cast off a hundred years ago through immense hardship and sacrifice.

After hearing once more the categorical demand of Colonel Shuttleworth for the acceptance of Azerbaijani authority, and having considered the motivating factors behind this request, the Congress nevertheless finds it impossible to alter its negative decision—one shaped by the resolute will of all Armenians of Karabakh. The delegates of the Congress, empowered by the people, categorically refuse to bear any responsibility for potential bloodshed that may result from forced imposition of Azerbaijani rule.

Resolution Unanimously adopted and signed by all delegates of the Congress

The Fifth Congress of Armenians of Karabakh, having reviewed at its unofficial meeting on April 23, 1919 (new style) the administrative plan for temporary authority in Karabakh proposed by Colonel Shuttleworth of the British command, and having formally examined it at the official meeting on April 24 (new style), resolves:

  1. To reaffirm their absolute commitment to restoring order and peace in Karabakh.
  2. To sincerely support the British command’s proposals to maintain peaceful and friendly relations with the neighboring Turkic people, as has always been the position of the Armenians of Karabakh.
  3. To acknowledge that the territorial and border issues concerning Karabakh should be resolved definitively at the Peace Conference, as stated by General Shuttleworth himself.

The Fifth Congress of Armenians of Karabakh concludes that this administrative program does not reflect the aspirations or vital interests of the Armenian population of Karabakh who sent the delegates with clear instructions and written mandates.

The Congress rejects any administrative plan that implies even minimal association with Azerbaijan, and warns that any forced implementation of such a plan will inevitably lead to interethnic conflict and bloodshed—for which the Congress of Karabakh Armenians cannot and will not assume responsibility.

Signed by all 48 delegates present

đź“ś Letter from the Armenian Minister of Foreign Affairs to the Representative of the British Military Mission on the Temporary Administrative Structure of Artsakh

Erivani, April 25, 1919

I have the honor to respond to your letter No. 10/3 dated April 21. The issue raised therein is of considerable importance, as it directly pertains to the fundamental interests of the Armenian population of Armenia and Karabakh—an inseparable part of the former.

Mr. Shahmazyan undoubtedly based his position on Armenia’s indisputable rights over Karabakh, declaring the latter as part of Armenia. In doing so, he adhered to the stance of the Armenian government on this issue, which will undoubtedly be resolved definitively at the Peace Conference in Paris.

Pending that resolution, the Government of the Republic of Armenia believes that the British command should establish a British governor-generalship in Karabakh with participation from the Armenian National Council. The government continues to insist on this to this day.

I do not believe Mr. Shahmazyan intended to show any mistrust toward the British command. Such behavior would render him directly accountable to the government. I consider this a misunderstanding, and I have written to Mr. Shahmazyan to clarify. His response will enable me to revisit the matter and address the request from the 27th British Division.

Please accept the assurance of my highest consideration. Minister of Foreign Affairs & Acting Prime Minister: Tigranyan Secretary-General: Ter-Akopyan

đź“Ś Notification of the Fifth Congress of Armenians of Karabakh to the Azerbaijani Governor-General on Refusal to Cooperate

Shushi, April 26, 1919

In response to your communication dated April 25, 1919, No. 937, the Fifth Congress of Armenians of Karabakh hereby informs you that, following its unanimous and categorical rejection of General Shuttleworth’s proposal regarding Azerbaijani governance in any form, it deems your offer of joint discussions on certain issues unacceptable.

Signed: The Armenian National Congress of Karabakh Chancellery Governor: B. Badalbekov

⚖️ Statement from the Government of Armenia to the British Commander-in-Chief in the Caucasus on Karabakh’s Non-Compliance with Azerbaijan

April 30, 1919

  1. Regarding Karabakh, the Armenian government requests that the mountainous region of Karabakh, inhabited by Armenians, be officially declared outside the jurisdiction of Azerbaijan. The Armenian government considers this region an integral part of Armenia.

Until the Paris Peace Conference makes its final decisions, a British governor-generalship should be established to administer the region in cooperation with the Armenian National Council.

The deportation of Armenian public figures from Karabakh must be stopped. <…>

đź“ť Report from the Azerbaijani Governor-General to the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Azerbaijan on Armenia’s Appointment of Shahmazyan as Commissioner of Zangezur

April 1919

In response to your inquiry of March 15, No. 1622, I have the honor to inform Your Excellency that the newspaper Novoe Vremya’s report on the Armenian government’s appointment of Arsen Shahmazyan as Commissioner in Zangezur is confirmed according to private sources, and the British mission has promised to deport the aforementioned Shahmazyan.

Acting Governor-General [Sultanov]

✉️ Appeal of the Representatives of the Armenian Population of Karabakh and Zangezur

To the Peoples and Governments of the Allied Powers On the Just Resolution of the Status of These Armenian Regions [April] 1919

Of all Armenian-populated regions worldwide, only Karabakh and Zangezur escaped Turkish devastation and destruction during the war. Through the might and reckless bravery of their sons, these two regions defended themselves against the Turks—even when all of Russia and the Caucasus had capitulated before the onslaught of the German-Turkish coalition. They succeeded in preserving their freedom. And now, despite the victory of the Allies and the proclaimed triumph of justice, Karabakh and Zangezur face new horrors.

The neighboring Muslim political formation of Azerbaijan, created by Turkey, is undertaking aggressive actions against the Armenian territories of Karabakh and Zangezur. These actions are driven by the refusal of the local Armenian population—and of the government of Armenia itself—to recognize Azerbaijani authority over Nagorno-Karabakh and Zangezur.

Azerbaijan is actively moving detachments toward Armenian districts, concentrating troops and artillery. Attacks by Azerbaijani Tatars on Armenian villages, accompanied by killings and livestock theft, have intensified. Roads are nearly closed to Armenians, and a harsh economic boycott has been imposed.

The British command under General Shuttleworth not only fails to stop these atrocities but actively supports Azerbaijan’s claims, threatening Armenians with reprisals. It has dissolved elected national bodies, expelled Armenia’s representative to the British mission, and relies in its policies on individuals discredited in the public eye by prior conduct. These actions aim to fracture the people. Even refugee assistance has become a political tool.

Nonetheless, the Armenian population of Karabakh and Zangezur has repeatedly and firmly resolved, through a series of congresses, to reject Azerbaijani authority—regardless of the form in which it is presented. This resolute decision reflects the unwavering will of a people determined to defend their rights against all encroachments.

The Armenian people of Karabakh and Zangezur hold the moral right to this stance. In the war for the great Allied cause, they gave tens of thousands of lives on the front and at home, endured two years of horrific siege by Tatar forces, and in glorious battles defeated enemies of the Entente—the Turks—while enduring a lopsided fight, awaiting the Allies as liberators.

They have not forgotten the terror of the Tatar regime that for centuries sought to subjugate them with fire and sword. The horrors of the Turkish-Azerbaijani invasion still live on: the massacres in Baku, Nukha, Geokchay, and Arash; Armenians thrown from trains in Azerbaijan; recent kidnappings and killings in Baku; and the continuing murders, assaults, and violence against Armenians within Karabakh itself.

Thus, General Shuttleworth’s demand to subject the 330,000 Armenians compactly settled in the mountainous regions of Azerbaijan not only violates the principle of self-determination…

(*The text breaks off here.)

Additional Proposed Measures from the Appeal:

  1. Establish within one of Armenia’s ministries a dedicated body to address the Karabakh issue.
  2. Charge the Armenian delegation in Paris with an uncompromising mandate: under no circumstances should Karabakh be ceded. Any concession—given the strong opposition of the local Armenian population to Azerbaijani rule—would lead to renewed complications and bloodshed.

đź“ś Instruction of the Government of Armenia

To the Armenian National Council of Karabakh and Official Representatives of Armenia in Karabakh Late April – Early May 1919

  1. The Government of Armenia recognizes Karabakh as an inseparable part of the Republic of Armenia. However, pending a decision by the Paris Peace Conference, it considers it necessary to entrust the administration of the region to a British Governor-General of English nationality, alongside national councils of Armenians and Muslims—the former in Armenian Karabakh, the latter in the Muslim part (from Askeran eastward).
  2. The Government of Armenia cannot expel anyone from Karabakh, as it does not exercise administrative authority there.
  3. The Government of Armenia maintains two official representatives in Karabakh: Arzumanyan and Shahmazyan.
  4. The Government of Armenia believes that Karabakh’s self-defense councils should possess their own armed forces, which are not considered part of the Armenian Republic’s military. Therefore, it cannot issue orders to them.
  5. The Government of Armenia finds it acceptable to advise the Armenian National Council of Zangezur to allow Muslim nomads passage into the mountains, provided they are accompanied by British troops and joint Armenian-Muslim monitors. However, it does not have the authority or capacity to mandate such action.
  6. The Government of Armenia declares that, under the conditions imposed by the British command, it cannot be held responsible for developments in Karabakh, as it lacks administrative control there. Should the British command wish to transfer this responsibility to the Armenian Government, it must first transfer governance over Karabakh, as was done in the case of the Kars region.
  7. The Government of Armenia has not dispatched, nor does it maintain, any agitators in Karabakh. However, if Armenian officers are present who organize local forces, or if civic leaders advocate the rejection of Azerbaijani authority in Karabakh, this is not the result of government orders. Rather, it reflects the sincere and clear will of the 300,000-strong population of Karabakh—a will that no one can alter, and any attempt to do so would provoke unrest and uprising, in contradiction to British policy principles.
  8. Refusing Nakhichevan refugees re-entry into the Nakhichevan region and linking their return to the Karabakh issue would resemble Turkish policy—holding innocent people accountable for the actions of third parties, in this case, hypothetical actions of the Armenian Government.
  9. The position of the Armenian Government and the Karabakh National Council regarding the Karabakh issue does not represent solely the view of the Dashnaktsutyun Party. It is shared by all existing political parties in Armenia.

A. Khatisyan Autograph. Archive ref.: CGIA Armenia, f. 200, op. 1, d. 309, pp. 39–40 verso. Published in Nagorno-Karabakh in 1918–1923, Yerevan, 1992, doc. no. 115. (Emphasis ours – Y.B.)

đź“ť Letter from the Head of the British Military Mission in Shusha

To the Representative of Armenia at the British Mission regarding the Temporary Transfer of Karabakh’s Administration to Azerbaijan Shusha, May 1, 1919

I must inform you that, in accordance with British policy aimed at establishing peaceful conditions in Karabakh, administrative authority over Karabakh has been transferred to the Azerbaijani Government with the consent of the Armenian Government.

I must also inform you that the Armenian Government has declined to recognize Captain Shahmazyan. I relay this to you in case you have not received a written document confirming this from General Shuttleworth.

I have asked General Shuttleworth to send you this document as soon as possible. In the meantime, this communication should clarify the Armenian Government’s position regarding the authority of the Azerbaijani Government in Karabakh and Zangezur, as well as the role of Captain Shahmazyan in Zangezur.

Major Monk-Mason Head of the British Mission in Shusha Archive ref.: CGIA Armenia, f. 199, op. 1, d. 38, p. 29. Copy. Manuscript. Published in Nagorno-Karabakh in 1918–1923, Yerevan, 1992, doc. no. 116. 299

Yuri Barsegov “Nagorno-Karabakh in International Law and Global Politics”

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