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A delegation led by the speakers and deputy speakers of the parliaments from the Nordic-Baltic Eight countries is currently in Armenia.

Young activists and other members of the Republican Party of Armenia (RPA) on Thursday staged a protest outside the Dvin Hotel Complex in Yerevan, where the delegation was staying. The protesters called attention to Armenian prisoners illegally held in Azerbaijan.

RPA Youth Organization head Henrikh Danielyan called on foreign officials to take a stand against Ilham Aliyev's regime, condemning its actions and demanding the immediate release of Armenian prisoners of war.

“In the 21st century, human rights are being trampled, and terrorism is being encouraged,” Danielyan said. “We call for an end to double standards and the restoration of human rights. Representatives of the European Union and relevant international bodies must speak out against the unlawful and inhuman detention of Armenian prisoners of war, as well as Artsakh's military and political leaders, in Baku. Aliyev's terrorist actions must be condemned and sanctioned.”

The protesters held up photos of the Artsakh military and political leaders illegally detained in Baku, chanting “Freedom!”

MP Hayk Mamijanyan, leader of the opposition Pativ Unem faction, criticized the lack of government efforts to secure the return of Armenian prisoners.

“Ahead of COP 29 in Baku in November 2024, the National Assembly of Armenia rejected an opposition resolution calling for the repatriation of prisoners. They are indifferent to the lives of Armenians held captive in Azerbaijan,” Mamijanyan stated.

“Remaining silent and failing to use all possible means to secure their return is, in my opinion, disgraceful. Azerbaijan's propaganda efforts are a disgrace to us all. Individual sanctions should be imposed on the Aliyev regime. Obviously, Azerbaijan responds only to this kind of pressure," the MP added.