The changing political climate in Turkey is creating an atmosphere of fear that discourages open discussion about the Armenian Genocide, according to Ruben Safrastyan, Director of the Oriental Institute at Armenia’s National Academy of Sciences. Speaking at a press briefing organized by ARMENPRESS, the noted Turkish affairs expert reflected on the growing suppression of free expression in Turkey and its effect on historical discourse.
“In previous years, there was more freedom to speak honestly about the Armenian Genocide within Turkish society,” Safrastyan remarked. “But since the failed coup in 2016, President Erdogan has consolidated power even further, tightening control over civil discourse and intensifying pressure on dissenting voices.”
Safrastyan lamented the growing silence of once-vocal Turkish intellectuals and human rights advocates who had previously dared to speak out about the events of 1915. He noted that this repression is not just persisting—it is deepening. “The strategy seems focused on cultivating silence across the nation, where truth-telling has become increasingly dangerous.”
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While Turkey continues to suppress acknowledgment of the genocide, international recognition efforts are gaining momentum, especially in regions not traditionally vocal on the issue. One of the more notable developments, Safrastyan explained, is the increasing attention the issue is receiving from countries in the Muslim world.
“This shift deserves closer examination,” he said. “Historically, we’ve seen nations become more active in recognizing the genocide during periods of diplomatic tension with Turkey. But today, we’re also seeing moral and humanitarian motivations coming into play—particularly in parts of the Arab world.”
According to Safrastyan, these developments may signal a broader reassessment of historical narratives, even among countries that share religious and political ties with Turkey. He expressed cautious optimism that more Muslim-majority nations will choose to confront the genocide as a human rights issue rather than a geopolitical inconvenience.
“The hope is that solidarity based on shared religion does not overshadow the imperative to stand against crimes against humanity,” he said.
Turning to Armenia’s strategy, Safrastyan urged a more structured and determined approach toward reparations. Recognition alone, he stressed, is not enough. The next step must involve pursuing justice through legal frameworks and international advocacy.
“Genocide is among the gravest of crimes, and those responsible must be held accountable—even if decades have passed,” he insisted. “Armenia must prepare its legal case carefully, wait for the right political conditions, and press the demand for reparations at the global stage.”