Gegham Stepanyan, the Human Rights Defender of Artsakh, commented on the March 18 decision by the Council of States, the upper chamber of the Swiss Federal Assembly, noting that the resolution, adopted by both chambers, has acquired the force of law.

He emphasized that this resolution sends a specific message: the Nagorno-Karabakh issue is not resolved. The international community, represented by Switzerland, does not overlook the problem of forcibly displaced persons. The issue of displaced persons must be addressed, and Switzerland has undertaken a commitment in this regard, he stated.

According to Stepanyan, the Federal Council, Switzerland's highest executive body, is expected to organize an international peace forum on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict in the coming year.

He stressed that the process does not end here and mentioned that the main steps should now be taken by the Swiss government. At the same time, the committee on the protection of the fundamental rights of the people of Artsakh should also actively participate in this endeavor.

Stepanyan noted that the issue of the return of the displaced population of Artsakh is not included in the official agenda of the Republic of Armenia. However, this move by Switzerland creates a platform where this issue can be discussed between representatives of Nagorno-Karabakh and Azerbaijan.

*The Council of States adopted project No. 24.4259, titled "Peace Forum for Nagorno-Karabakh: Ensuring the Possibility of Return for Armenians." In the 46-member chamber, 29 deputies voted in favor, 12 against. Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis and several deputies attempted to prevent the adoption of the resolution, arguing that it contradicts international law, as the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh are not subjects of international law. Cassis stated that Baku and Yerevan would soon sign a peace agreement, rendering such an initiative unnecessary.

However, supporters of the resolution countered, noting that Switzerland has proven its effectiveness as a neutral mediator. They emphasized that facilitating dialogue between representatives of Azerbaijan and the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh could contribute to the safe and organized return of forcibly displaced persons.*