Day of the Azerbaijani Genocide

Day of the Azerbaijani Genocide is an official day of remembrance observed on March 31 to commemorate the mass killings carried out against Azerbaijani Turks on Azerbaijani territory during March–April 1918. This date was officially proclaimed by decree signed in 1998 by the former President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Heydar Aliyev.

These events are classified as a “genocide” in Azerbaijani historiography and are regarded as one of the most severe and tragic episodes in the country’s history.

In the early 20th century, during the final years of the Russian Empire, the Armenian population settled in various regions of Azerbaijan began to gain influence as imperial authority weakened. Starting in 1905, Armenian armed groups carried out organized military actions, instigating clashes in numerous areas, especially in Baku, and exerting pressure on the Azerbaijani population.

Following the Russian Revolution of 1917, the Tsarist regime collapsed and the Bolsheviks seized power. During this period, the Bolshevik administration in Baku, under the leadership of Armenian revolutionary Stepan Shaumyan, provided political and material support to Armenian armed groups, creating conditions that intensified attacks against Azerbaijanis.

Between March 30 and April 3, 1918, large-scale attacks were carried out by Armenian and Bolshevik armed groups in Baku, Shamakhi, Guba, Karabakh, Zangezur, Nakhchivan, and many other regions. As a result of these attacks, at least 50,000 Azerbaijanis lost their lives.^【1】

The violence was not confined to urban centers; villages were burned, civilians were targeted, and widespread population losses occurred. According to reports by investigative commissions, approximately 11,000 people were killed in Baku alone, and more than 20,000 in Shamakhi, including surrounding villages.^【2】 Mass graves uncovered in the Guba region serve as tangible evidence of these massacres.^【3】

Azerbaijani researchers and official institutions assess the events of 1918 as a planned policy of extermination based on ethnic and religious identity. In this framework, the events are emphasized as a systematic massacre targeting the Turkic and Muslim population of the region.

It is also noted that during the Soviet era, these events were interpreted in different ways for a prolonged period, and their true scale was concealed.

The massacres came to an end with the arrival in Azerbaijan in 1918 of the Islamic Army of the Caucasus, established by the Ottoman State and commanded by Nuri Pasha, which restored control over the region.

March 31 is not only a day of mourning in Azerbaijan but is also recognized as a significant symbol for preserving historical memory and strengthening national consciousness. In 1998, this date was officially designated as the Day of the Azerbaijani Genocide by presidential decree.

Every year on this date, commemorative ceremonies are held throughout the country, with Baku as the focal point. State officials and the public honor the victims with respect and sorrow. These commemorative activities serve an important function in promoting social unity and historical awareness.

The Day of the Azerbaijani Genocide today is not only about remembering the tragedy of the past; it is also part of a broader call for international recognition of these historical events. Officials emphasize that international acknowledgment of these atrocities is essential to preventing similar crimes against humanity.

In this context, March 31 continues to hold a central place for the Azerbaijani people as both a day of mourning and a day dedicated to preserving historical memory and national identity.