BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 3. The Amritsar events
are an appeal to the conscience of humanity, Vice-Rector for
International Relations of Baku State University (BSU), Shahin
Panahov, said at an international conference titled "June 1984,
events in Amritsar: India's transnational repression of ethnic
minorities in the context of genocide", held at BSU, Trend reports.
According to him, the tragic events that took place in Amritsar
in 1984, even after exactly 42 years, aren't a part of the history
of just one nation. These events are also the subject of global
debate in the context of international law, human rights, and the
protection of ethnic and religious minorities.
"These events remind us that the demand for justice and
recognition transcends national borders and appeals to the
conscience of humanity as a whole," he stressed.
According to the vice-rector, the mission of higher education
institutions expands beyond the transfer of knowledge and
skills.
"This mission also includes contributing to the strengthening of
peace, the preservation of cultural identity, and the protection of
human rights," he explained.
Panahov added that holding this conference in the university's
assembly hall, with the participation of students, will be an
important lesson from recent history for the younger
generation.
"Scholars, diaspora representatives, activists of local and
international non-governmental organizations, as well as public
figures gathered here today will hold discussions that share not
only the pain of the past, but also hopes for the future. This
dialogue will further increase the attention of international
organizations and parliaments, and pave the way for new initiatives
to protect the rights of minorities. This conference will be not
only an academic exchange of views, but also a demonstration of
collective will for justice and peace," he noted.
