Kalipso Bznuni

interested in technology, politics, art and health, tweets are personal | ex @vinetiworks & @aegee_europe

[Pope Leo XIV @Pontifex]

We live in an era marked by wars and growing polarization, as well as cultural and social divisions. Yet, in the midst of fragility, a new hope arises. Even as division seems to grow, a common denominator that indisputably unites us all appears: our shared humanity.
https://t.co/IPSGmuy0wN

[Pope Leo XIV @Pontifex]

In order to protect the human person in the age of #ArtificialIntelligence, we must once again reflect on the common good, the universal destination of goods, subsidiarity, solidarity and social justice. #MagnificaHumanitas
https://t.co/Oe8yclDxkr

[CIVILNET @CivilNetTV]

More than two dozen genocide scholars from universities and research institutions in the United States and Europe issued a joint statement on Friday calling on the Armenian government to reinstate Edita Gzoyan, saying her removal threatens the international standing of the Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute and raises concerns about academic independence.

The statement followed remarks by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, who said he had personally instructed Gzoyan to submit her resignation after her conduct during last month’s visit by U.S. Vice President JD Vance at the Tsitsernakaberd memorial complex.

“We, the undersigned, express deep concern over the recent and troubling developments at the Armenian Genocide Museum Institute in Yerevan,” the scholars said, adding that Gzoyan had resigned “reportedly under pressure from the government rather than by free choice.”

The signatories said Gzoyan had strengthened the institute’s global academic reputation through archival expansion, international conferences, and scholarly publications, and warned that political interference in its leadership would discourage cooperation with researchers abroad.

Pashinyan said that Gzoyan’s presentation to Vance of books related to Artsakh, and her references to anti-Armenian pogroms in Sumgait, Kirovabad, and Baku, contradicted Armenia’s foreign policy line.

“I was the one who asked the director of the Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute to submit a resignation letter; it was done on my instruction,” Pashinyan said at a government briefing. “I considered giving a book about Artsakh to Vance to be a provocative act that goes against the government’s policy.”

Museum staff have protested the move, and genocide historian Raymond Kevorkian, along with several other board members, resigned in protest.

The statement was signed by:

Prof. Bedross Der Matossian, professor of history and Hymen Rosenberg Professor in Judaic Studies at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln;
Prof. Elyse Semerdjian, chair in Armenian Genocide Studies at the Clark University;
Prof. Armen Marsoobian, professor of philosophy at Southern Connecticut State University;
Prof. Keith Watenpaugh, professor of human rights studies at University of California, Davis;
Prof. Melanie Schulze Tanielian, associate professor of history at University of Michigan;
Dr. Simon Maghakyan, faculty member at University of Oxford;
Dr. Boris Adjemian, director of Bibliothèque Nubar;
Mr. Marc Mamigonian, director of academic affairs at National Association for Armenian Studies and Research;
Prof. Vahé Tachjian, Armenian studies chair at Saint Joseph University of Beirut;
Prof. Houri Berberian, professor of history at University of California, Irvine;
Prof. Henry Theriault, vice-chair of National Association for Armenian Studies and Research;
Prof. Ronald Grigor Suny, professor emeritus at University of Michigan and University of Chicago;
Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian, Armenian studies coordinator at California State University, Fresno;
Prof. Lori Khatchadourian, associate professor at Cornell University;
Dr. Hilmar Kaiser of University of Bern;
Mr. Michael Bobelian, adjunct professor at Columbia University and Baruch College;
Prof. A. Dirk Moses, professor at City College of New York;
Prof. Hervè Georgelin of National and Kapodistrian University of Athens;
Mr. Gregory Aftandilian, senior professorial lecturer at American University;
Prof. Julien Zarifian of University of Poitiers;
Prof. Fatma Müge Göçek of University of Michigan;
Prof. David Gaunt of Södertörn University;
Prof. Tessa Hofmann, formerly of Free University of Berlin;
Dr. Talar Chahinian of University of California, Irvine;
Prof. Samuel Totten of University of Arkansas.
The scholars said Gzoyan should be reinstated immediately and warned that leadership decisions at the institute should be based on academic qualifications rather than political considerations.

[Jared Genser @JaredGenser]

“The conviction & sentence of @RubenVardanyan_ to 20 years in prison by the Baku Military Court on manufactured charges is simply a travesty of justice. A respected businessman and philanthropist, Ruben’s only ‘crime’ was standing up for the right to self-determination of the Armenian-Christian people of Nagorno-Karabakh, some 120,000 of whom were victims of Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev’s ethnic cleansing campaign that drove them from that region into Armenia. The trial itself was a total sham as it is illegal for civilians to ever be tried before a military court. It was also held in secret, with countless other due process abuses such repeated denials of access to counsel and the court simply ignoring dozens of filed motions that under Azeri law had to each be ruled upon within days of their filing. Beyond that, literally all the so-called ‘evidence’ of the ‘witnesses’ presented to the court was illegal as inadmissible hearsay. Every witness claimed they or family members were injured in attacks by the Armenian military or other armed groups - but the sum total of the ‘evidence’ Ruben was actually connected to or responsible for any of these attacks was their having heard in the Azeri state-run media that he was responsible. That is evidence of nothing at all. As such, Ruben’s conviction and sentence violates both international and Azeri law and all 19 Armenian-Christian political prisoners and POWs must be immediately and unconditionally released. I urge President @realDonaldTrump to follow through on his public commitment to Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan to secure the release of all of them from President Aliyev so they can safely return to Armenia.”

Jared Genser, International Counsel to Ruben Vardanyan

#freerubenvardanyan
#freearmenianprisoners

[Ruben Vardanyan @RubenVardanyan_]

Statement by the Family of Ruben Vardanyan

Today we learned that Ruben Vardanyan – a beloved husband, father, brother and grandfather – has been sentenced to 20 years in prison.

The verdict by a military court in Azerbaijan is devastating, though not unexpected. From the moment of his arbitrary detention 874 days ago, it became evident that the outcome of this process had been predetermined.

Throughout this period, Ruben was denied fundamental guarantees of due process, including meaningful access to legal defense, contact with his international counsel, and the ability of independent media to attend the proceedings. The hearings were held behind closed doors and in conditions incompatible with the standards of a fair trial under international law and even Azerbaijani laws.

Despite attempts to discredit Ruben’s reputation as a humanitarian, philanthropist, and social entrepreneur, the support expressed by governments, civil society leaders, and international observers has provided strength and hope to our family.

This is not merely a trial of Ruben Vardanyan and the other Armenian detainees; it is seen as a judgment against the Armenian people as a whole.

We will continue our efforts to secure his release and the release of all Armenian detainees held on politically motivated grounds, and we call on international leaders to take all appropriate measures, consistent with international law, to ensure their freedom and protect their rights.

[Kalipso Bznuni @realbznuni]

@NoubarAfeyan tbh haven't seen you doing much to help your long time friend

[Kalipso Bznuni @realbznuni]

@LindaVicken inch lava Linda jan

[Linda vicken euljeckjian @LindaVicken]

I am unable to do anything but pray for our prisoners. I wish them a Merry Christmas. May this day bring hope to our loved ones. Today is difficult for us and for them. Lord, reunite my family. We miss you, Vicken. #freevicken #FreeArmenianHostages @MinassianOk

[Jared Genser @JaredGenser]

@HayWire_X A big step forward towards securing the release of my client @RubenVardanyan_, the former State Counselor of #Nagorno-#Karabakh & one of 10 #political #prisoners & #POWs in #Azerbaijan.

[Arash Azizi آرش عزیزی @arash_tehran]

If you want to understand my gorgeous, beautiful country, watch our cinema

[Regional Center for Democracy and Security @regcendemsec]

🚨 New article out! @ArakelyanEdG & @KarenaAv's “Diversifying Armenia's Defense: Shifting Alliances and Military Modernization” is featured in the May 2025 issue of European Security & Defence, a leading defense policy magazine.

📄 Read here (p. 83): [https://t.co/6QxokrTqYP]

[SOARchapterBuenosAires @SOARchapterBsAs]

Urgent Appeal Regarding the Communication Rights and Medical Condition of POW Vicken Euljeckjian.
The Society for Orphaned Armenian Relief, together with the family of prisoner of war Vicken Euljeckjian, urgently demand the immediate restoration of regular, humane communication

[Linda vicken euljeckjian @LindaVicken]

#freevicken #freearmenianhostages #ruben #bringmyfatherhome @SOARchapterBsAs @MinassianOk @PaulaYacoubian @Arm_Libertarios @FreeArmenianPOW @CSI_humanrights @LBpresidency @nawafasalam @yacoubianroset1 @MAGUYNENEDJIAN @hrw @FreeArmHostages @ArtSpangenberg

[Aznavour Foundation @AznavourFound]

Dear Ruben,
On this special day, we want to take a moment to tell you how much you mean to us - not only as a friend, but as someone whose commitment to Armenia and the Armenian people has left an indelible mark on our nation’s modern history.
We have long admired your strength, your clarity of vision, and your efforts to build a better future for generations to come. You have never been afraid to take bold steps, to speak uncomfortable truths, or to shoulder heavy responsibilities - always guided by a deep love for your homeland and a sense of duty.
Today, as you face one of the most difficult chapters of your life, our thoughts are with you and your family more than ever.
We hope this birthday, even under these circumstances, brings you a moment of warmth - a reminder that you are not alone, and that your courage continues to inspire so many of us. We hold onto hope for the day we can greet you again in freedom, and continue, together, the work we believe in so deeply.

With love and support,
Nicolas and Kristina

[Ruben Vardanyan @RubenVardanyan_]

The Vardanyan family extends its heartfelt condolences to the Catholic faithful worldwide on this solemn week of mourning. Our thoughts are with all those gathered these last days at St. Peter's Square and to Catholics around the world during this time of grief.

We call upon the Vatican to honor Pope Francis's legacy by taking action to secure the release of 23 Armenian prisoners unjustly detained, including our father Ruben Vardanyan. To truly preserve Pope Francis's commitment to justice and human dignity, the Holy See can play a vital role in diplomatic efforts to free these prisoners. Their continued imprisonment stands in contrast to the principles of peace and reconciliation that Pope Francis championed throughout his papacy.

As Pope Francis himself declared: "Religions cannot be used for war. Only peace is holy." We urge the Church to put these words into action by advocating for the immediate and unconditional release of all Armenian prisoners. These Christians deserve protection from persecution and face challenges due to their faith.

The time for action is now.

We ask all people of conscience to join us in this call for justice and freedom for the 23 Armenian prisoners, including Ruben Vardanyan, who remain captive solely because of their beliefs and heritage.

[Christian Solidarity International (CSI) @CSI_humanrights]

Our UN side event on Armenian hostages in #Azerbaijan had a special guest appearance from @DavidAltonHL.

Lord Alton is chairman of the UK Parliament's Joint Committee on Human Rights, and a tireless and vocal defender of oppressed peoples around the world.

We are grateful for his support!

Watch the full event here: https://t.co/oMx5V3S0sz

[Christian Solidarity International (CSI) @CSI_humanrights]

#SYRIA: Mass executions of Alawite civilians in #Latakia over the past few days, after apparent clashes between insurgents and the new security forces drawn from the jihadists of HTS.

This BBC report contains a chilling firsthand account of Alawite neighborhoods being targeted.

The violence highlights the threat to all religious minorities in Syria, including Christians, under the new regime.

[Jared Genser @JaredGenser]

(1 of 2) I couldn’t agree more with #Armenia Prime Minister @NikolPashinyan that he should make “proportionate” & “reasonable” efforts to free my client @RubenVardanyan_ & the other Armenian Christian political prisoners & POWs detained by #Azerbaijan. That is precisely why all the items on this list come exclusively from examples of the kinds and of things other governments have done over my 25 years of experience working to recover foreign hostages. Surely Armenian hostages deserve at least as much help as what other governments provide, no?

[Ruben Vardanyan @RubenVardanyan_]

From his prison cell, Ruben Vardanyan’s call for true and lasting peace

Despite more than 500 days of illegal imprisonment, Ruben Vardanyan's voice remains unbroken as he advocates for a peace grounded in fundamental human values, based on dignity, creating a foundation for genuine coexistence in the South Caucasus. Vardanyan sent an audio message from the Baku isolation ward through his family, requesting that the phone conversation be recorded and made public. He calls for a “real, stable, long-term peace – not just on a paper, but one that is sustainable and is adhered to by all people”.

The full audio version of the message is available here https://t.co/v4Kw84IGTc

[Aznavour Foundation @AznavourFound]

Chers amis,

Aujourd’hui, je souhaite aborder un sujet d’une extrême urgence. Ruben Vardanyan, un homme qui a consacré sa vie à l’Arménie, à son peuple et à son avenir, se trouve actuellement en grève de la faim après avoir été injustement incarcéré en Azerbaïdjan pendant plus de 500 jours. Son engagement en faveur de la justice demeure indéfectible, mais sa santé et sa vie sont trop précieuses pour être mises en péril.

Ruben a toujours œuvré pour l’Arménie, à travers ses actions humanitaires, son leadership et sa vision d’un avenir plus fort et uni. Que ce soit en soutenant l’éducation, en initiant des projets sociaux, en reconstruisant des communautés ou en favorisant le développement économique, son influence dépasse largement nos frontières. Chaque geste, chaque action qu’il a entreprise, l’a été dans l’intérêt des Arméniens, pour défendre notre dignité, nos droits et notre aspiration à vivre en paix.

Aujourd’hui, il est temps pour nous de défendre Ruben. Il est crucial que nous l’exhortions à mettre fin à sa grève de la faim et qu’il nous permette, à nous, Arméniens du monde entier, de l’aider à porter ce fardeau. Nous devons élever la voix, sensibiliser l’opinion publique et exiger des actions concrètes. Son sacrifice ne doit en aucun cas se faire au prix de sa santé ou de sa vie.

Unissons-nous. Exprimons-nous. Assurons-nous que le combat de Ruben ne passe pas inaperçu. Partageons son histoire, réclamons justice et montrons au monde que les Arméniens ne laissent jamais tomber ceux qui les soutiennent.

Ruben, mon cher ami, nous avons besoin de toi, fort et à nos côtés. S’il te plaît, mets fin à cette grève de la faim, et poursuivons ensemble cette lutte pour la justice.

Nicolas Aznavour

Co-fondateur et président,
Fondation Aznavour
—
Dear Friends,

Today, I want to address a matter of utmost urgency. Ruben Vardanyan—a man who has devoted his life to Armenia, its people, and its future—is currently on a hunger strike after being unjustly imprisoned in Azerbaijan for over 500 days. His commitment to justice is unwavering, but his health and life are far too precious to be put at risk.

Ruben has always stood up for Armenia—through his humanitarian efforts, his leadership, and his vision for a stronger, united future. From supporting education and social initiatives to rebuilding communities and driving economic development, his impact extends far beyond our borders. Everything he has done has been for the benefit of all Armenians—for our dignity, our rights, and our aspiration to live in peace.

Now, it is our turn to stand for Ruben. We must urge him to end his hunger strike and allow us—Armenians across the world—to help him bear this burden. We must raise our voices, spread awareness, and demand action. His sacrifice should not come at the cost of his health or his life.

Let us unite. Let us speak out. Let us ensure that Ruben’s struggle does not go unnoticed. Share his story, demand justice, and show the world that Armenians never abandon those who stand for them.

Ruben, my dear friend, we need you strong and by our side. Please, stop the hunger strike and let us continue this struggle for justice together.

Nicolas Aznavour,
Co-founder and Chairman,
Aznavour Foundation