Bulgaria’s Parliament passed a resolution recognizing the mass extermination of Armenians that occurred in the Ottoman Empire between 1915 and 1922. The vote passed with 157 votes in favor and 36 against. The resolution asserts that the “extermination of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire in 1915-1922 is identified by undeniable historic facts and authentic documents.” Furthermore, the Parliament declared April 24 a Victims Remembrance Day.
The resolution emphasized that Bulgaria distinguishes between the historical legacy of the Ottoman Empire and the legacy of the Republic of Turkey, while welcoming dialogue on the historical truth between Turkey and Armenia. The historical context relates to the systematic killing and deportation of an estimated one and a half million Armenians. International recognition of the event as a genocide has been granted by several nations and bodies, including the European Parliament.
Conversely, Turkish authorities deny the characterization of genocide, maintaining that deaths resulted from sporadic armed groups and starvation, and admitting to a lower casualty count. During the debate, lawmakers addressed the terminology used, with some proposing the replacement of “genocide” with “mass extermination.” Political figures present noted the clear distinction between the Ottoman Empire and modern Turkey. Opposition members raised concerns that altering the language within the resolution could diminish the community’s ability to assert its rights through legal channels.
Despite the procedural debates, the passage of the resolution underscores a formal acknowledgment by the Bulgarian state regarding the tragedy experienced by the Armenians.
Topics: #ottoman #armenians #genocide
