International research project examines Artsakh Armenian displacement

An international team of researchers has launched the Artsakh Displacement and Identity Project to study the long-term social, cultural and identity consequences faced by Armenians displaced from Artsakh following the 2020-23 conflict and September 2023 events.

Led by Tessa Hofmann, Lilia Arakelyan and Hanna Samir Kassab, the project will conduct 80-100 qualitative interviews with displaced Artsakh Armenians now living in Armenia, Russia and the United States. The research examines how forced displacement affects community cohesion, cultural continuity and identity formation across geographic dispersion.

The six-month study is among the first English-language projects to analyze Artsakh Armenian displacement through the lens of subethnic continuity and identity transformation. Researchers will consult specialists in migration studies, human rights and cultural heritage. The project will produce a research report, analytical materials and multilingual resources for academic and community use. Interested displaced Armenians and collaborating organizations can contact the research team.