At the 76th World Health Assembly, RA Minister of Health Anahit Avanesyan touched upon the challenges in the region which pose a threat to the right to life and health of the people of Artsakh.

Here are excerpts from Anahit Avanesyan’s speech in Geneva:

“It is a great honor and pleasure for me to participate in the 76th World Health Assembly.

Dear colleagues!

I would like to take this opportunity to draw your attention to the challenges in our region which pose a significant threat to the right to life and public health.

For six months already, the safe and unimpeded transportation of people and goods through the Berdzor road to Artsakh remains blocked by the authorities of Baku, as a result of which 120,000 people are completely isolated.

The prolonged blockade of Artsakh has caused a shortage of food, medicine and medical services.

Azerbaijan deliberately politicizes and obstructs safe and unimpeded access of UN agencies to Artsakh, in line with humanitarian principles, thus depriving the people of Artsakh of humanitarian aid.

We attach great importance to the World Health Organization’s timely and firm response to the situation in Artsakh, in accordance with its mandate and the Constitution, which clearly states – “enjoyment of the highest standards of health, a fundamental right.”

“The health of the people is fundamental to achieving peace and security and depends on the full cooperation of individuals and States.”