Armenia Seeks Humanitarian Support as Displaced Populations Grow
Armenia has asked the European Commission for help in managing a surge of displaced people arriving from Nagorno-Karabakh. The request was reported by TASS, citing officials from the Italian government who confirmed the appeal and described the situation on the ground. The move underscores the urgent humanitarian needs facing Armenia as it receives a large inflow of people seeking safety and stability after days of tension in the region.
Officials on both sides have emphasized that those arriving carry basic needs and hygiene supplies that must be addressed quickly. Local authorities have highlighted the immediate priorities: shelter, food security, clean water, sanitation items, and access to essential health services. The situation is evolving, and relief teams are coordinating with international partners to scale up the distribution of aid as refugee numbers continue to rise.
Italy has indicated a proactive stance in stabilizing the broader regional context and fostering dialogue between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The Italian authorities reportedly activated their humanitarian channels promptly, positioning themselves to support emergency response efforts and help manage movement across affected areas. Italy’s involvement reflects a broader international effort to prevent further deterioration and to support peacebuilding in the South Caucasus region.
Armenian officials have stated that more than 100,000 internally displaced persons have arrived from Nagorno-Karabakh. This figure signals a substantial humanitarian challenge for Armenia, which is tasked with ensuring the safety, dignity, and basic rights of a large refugee population while maintaining essential services for its own citizens. The influx has tested the capacity of Armenian housing, health care, and social protection systems, prompting calls for sustained international assistance and orderly relocation within the country where possible.
On September 19, Azerbaijani authorities announced a localized operation in Karabakh with stated aims to stop large-scale provocations, disarm any armed groups in the area, and withdraw Armenian army units from regional territory. The move was framed as a security measure by Baku in response to continuing tensions and incidents along the line of contact. The announcement triggered widespread attention among regional observers and humanitarian workers, who stressed the need for careful handling of civilians and a clear, credible plan to avoid further escalation.
A day after the operation, Russian peacekeepers facilitated discussions that led to a ceasefire agreement between the parties. The agreement created a temporary pause in hostilities and established a framework for de-escalation in areas affected by the conflict. The role of peacekeeping forces is seen as central to preserving safety for residents, enabling aid deliveries, and providing space for humanitarian relief operations to proceed with fewer disruptions.
Armenia has also announced the creation of temporary shelter options capable of housing thousands of displaced people. The aim is to provide secure, dignified accommodation while longer-term arrangements are explored. Shelter programs are designed to ensure access to essential services, including sanitation facilities, electricity, and healthcare, and they are coordinated with international partners to maximize coverage and efficiency as the displacement situation evolves.
In the political arena, discussions within the European Parliament have touched on security measures related to Azerbaijan and potential sanctions in response to the evolving Karabakh crisis. Lawmakers have debated the implications of the conflict for regional stability, human rights, and the broader European interest in maintaining a peaceful settlement. The dialogue reflects ongoing international scrutiny and the willingness of EU institutions to respond to humanitarian needs while pursuing diplomatic avenues and accountability for all parties involved.
As the region navigates these critical days, humanitarian agencies continue to call for rapid, well-coordinated relief efforts. The priority remains the protection of civilians, the rapid deployment of essential supplies, and the establishment of safe, sustainable housing for those who have been displaced. International partners are urged to sustain their support and to collaborate with local authorities to ensure that basic needs are met and that human dignity remains at the center of all response actions. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing assessments shaping the next steps for relief, protection, and stabilization in the South Caucasus.