Show Notes

In this episode of Conversations on Groong, we welcome Gev Iskajyan, National Grassroots Director of the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA). Gev reflects on the devastating blockade of Artsakh, the ethnic cleansing of its Armenian population, and the lasting impact on Armenian sovereignty and identity. With vivid firsthand accounts, Gev recounts the progression of the crisis, the exodus of over 120,000 Armenians, and the broader geopolitical implications.

This episode highlights the resilience of the Armenian people, the humanitarian tragedy that unfolded, and the urgent need for justice and accountability on an international scale.

Topics Covered

1. Memories of the Artsakh Blockade

The escalation from gas and electricity cutoffs to total isolation.
Public reliance on Russian peacekeepers and the shifting perceptions of their role.
Reflections on the hopelessness as the blockade extended without resolution.

2. Ethnic Cleansing and Mass Exodus

The chaos of September 2023: forced displacement, violent attacks, and loss of life.
The gas station explosion that killed over 200 people during the evacuation.
Psychological trauma and logistical challenges in resettling refugees.

3. Geopolitical Implications and Advocacy

Azerbaijan’s strategic goals and the response of global powers.
Luis Moreno Ocampo’s classification of the events as genocide.
Advocacy strategies for the Armenian diaspora in the U.S. and beyond.

4. Humanitarian Crisis

Housing, food shortages, and the emotional toll on displaced families.
Community solidarity and the role of NGOs in providing aid.
Stories of survival and resilience amid the chaos.

Key Questions Discussed

What were the critical moments that defined the Artsakh blockade?
How did the population of Artsakh perceive Russian peacekeepers during the crisis?
What were the immediate challenges faced by Armenians displaced from their homeland?
Can the events in Artsakh be classified as genocide, and what are the global implications?
What role can the Armenian diaspora play in advocating for justice and accountability?
How can international organizations and governments better respond to similar crises?

Wrap-up

Guest Biography

Gev Iskajyan is a seasoned advocate and activist, currently serving as the National Grassroots Director of ANCA. He previously served as the Executive Director of the Armenian National Committee of Artsakh, where he spearheaded initiatives to raise global awareness of Artsakh’s challenges and coordinated critical relief efforts.

Gev has held prominent roles with ANCA Western Region and the Armenian Youth Federation, organizing major initiatives like the 2015 ‘March for Justice.’ His commentary has appeared in Time Magazine, CNN, and BBC. Gev holds degrees in Political Science and Philosophy from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona.

Links and Resources

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Thanks to Laura Osborn for the music on our podcasts.

Gev Iskajyan

Gev Iskajyan is the National Grassroots Director of the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA). Before joining ANCA in 2024, he served as the Executive Director of the Armenian National Committee of Artsakh, where he worked to raise international awareness about Artsakh’s challenges and led relief efforts.

Previously, Iskajyan held leadership roles with ANCA Western Region, the Armenian Youth Federation, and the Armenian Genocide Commemorative Committee, where he organized impactful initiatives like the ‘March for Justice’ in 2015. His insights have been featured in prominent outlets such as CNN, BBC, and Newsweek. Iskajyan studied Political Science and Philosophy at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona.

Ethnic Cleansing of Artsakh: Gev Iskajyan Reflects on Survival and Tragedy | Ep 397 - Dec 18, 2024 [EP397]

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