French Parliament Calls for Immediate Release of Armenian Detainees Held in Azerbaijan

On February 4, 2026, France’s Senate and National Assembly overwhelmingly adopted resolutions calling for the immediate and unconditional release of the political leaders of the Republic of Artsakh, as well as Armenian detainees currently held in Azerbaijan. 

The measures were passed unanimously, with 183 votes in favor and none against.

A new resolution submitted to the National Assembly by lawmakers Laurent Wauquiez and Alexandra Martin expressed strong support for ongoing peace efforts between Armenia and Azerbaijan. 

It urged the French government to intensify diplomatic pressure to secure the release of all Armenian prisoners of war and detainees, while also proposing the establishment of a strategic partnership between France and Armenia.

The resolution highlighted Armenia’s commitment to peace since the end of hostilities in late 2023, noting its adherence to international law and its stated efforts to promote regional stability. 

It stressed that any future peace agreement must be grounded in fundamental principles, including respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, the non-use of force, the right of displaced persons to return, and the protection of ethnic and religious minorities.

Despite acknowledging diplomatic progress, French lawmakers voiced deep concern over the continued displacement of Armenians from Artsakh and the conditions under which former political, military, and civilian leaders of the region are being detained in Azerbaijan. 

The resolution condemned what it described as violations of international humanitarian law and the Geneva Conventions, particularly the alleged denial of fair and transparent legal proceedings.

Reaffirming France’s role as a historic ally of Armenia and a key actor in international diplomacy, the resolution called on French leadership to actively support the peace process while insisting on the release of the detainees. 

It warned that their continued detention represents a major obstacle to reconciliation and perpetuates ongoing injustice.

The resolution also urged the launch of an independent international investigation, under the supervision of the United Nations or another credible body, into the treatment and legal status of Armenian detainees. 

It emphasized the need to hold accountable those responsible for violations of international humanitarian law.

Lawmakers further argued that the prosecutions form part of a broader Azerbaijani policy aimed at erasing Armenia’s historical and cultural presence in the region, citing allegations of forced displacement of Armenians from Artsakh and the destruction of Armenian cultural and heritage sites in territories now under Azerbaijani control.