Photo: Ivars Kupcis/WCC

The Conference of European Churches (CEC) expresses its deep concern regarding the current situation in Armenia and the protection of its religious and cultural heritage, especially in the context of recent developments affecting Artsakh/Nagorno-Karabakh.

CEC General Secretary, Rev. Frank-Dieter Fischbach, participated in the international conference “Preservation of Armenian Religious, Cultural and Historical Heritage in Artsakh/Nagorno-Karabakh”, held on 27–28 May in Bern, Switzerland. The event was organised by the World Council of Churches (WCC) and the Protestant Church of Switzerland (EKS). 

“CEC follows with serious concern the challenges faced by Armenia, where we have an important Member Church,” said Rev. Frank-Dieter Fischbach. “It was a privilege to participate in this important conference, to listen to moving testimonies and expert contributions, and to show our solidarity with the Armenian people and churches. Protecting cultural heritage is essential to preserving identity, memory and justice.”

Rev. Fischbach also had the honour of a private audience with His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians. He met with Rev. Rita Famos, President of the EKS, and Rev. Dr Martin Hirzel, Director of External Relations and Vice Director of the EKS.

CEC Governing Board member Fr Garegin Hambardzumyan of the Armenian Apostolic Church also took active part in the conference. His involvement reflected the strong engagement of CEC Member Churches in addressing current human rights and heritage issues in the region.

The conference brought together religious leaders, international experts, and civil society actors to discuss the historical, legal, inter-religious, and human rights dimensions of protecting Armenian heritage. Participants called for coordinated international action to ensure the safety of Armenian cultural sites, the rights of its people, and the long-term security of the Armenian nation.

CEC remains committed to supporting churches and communities in Armenia, and to contributing to international efforts for peace, justice, and the protection of sacred heritage.