Diplomacy Journal David Kendall 기자 | 

One of the most tragic, yet dignified, pages in the modern history of the Republic of Azerbaijan occurred on January 20, 1990. Known as National Mourning Day, it commemorates the victims of the brutal military intervention carried out by the Soviet army against the civilian population in the capital Baku and other parts of the country. As a result of this ruthless aggression, 150 civilians were killed, 744 people were seriously injured, and four individuals went missing.

The events of January 20, often referred to as “Black January,” were aimed at suppressing the legitimate aspirations of the Azerbaijani people for freedom, national dignity, and sovereignty. The use of military force against unarmed civilians was a grave violation of human rights and international law. Yet, despite the scale of the tragedy, the operation failed to achieve its intended purpose. Instead of breaking the will of the nation, it strengthened the resolve of the Azerbaijani people to pursue independence and self-determination.

The sacrifice of the martyrs of January 20 played a decisive role in accelerating the national liberation movement, ultimately leading to the restoration of Azerbaijan’s independence in 1991. The unity, patriotism, and courage demonstrated during those dark days became the moral and political foundation of the modern Azerbaijani state. The tragedy also reinforced the determination of the nation to resist Armenia’s policies of mass deportations and occupation and to fully exercise its sovereign rights.

The historical legacy of January 20 found its continuation decades later. The spirit of resistance and national unity that emerged in 1990 fulfilled its mission during the 44-day Patriotic War of 2020 and the anti-terror operations of 2023. Under the leadership of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, the Azerbaijani Army liberated the country’s territories from occupation and restored territorial integrity and sovereignty in accordance with international law.

Azerbaijan’s Glorious Victory reshaped regional realities and laid the groundwork for a new era focused on peace, security, and development. Large-scale restoration and reconstruction projects, along with the return of former internally displaced persons to their ancestral lands, stand as tangible evidence of the nation’s resilience and determination. These achievements reflect the ideals for which the martyrs of January 20 and all national heroes sacrificed their lives.

Today, January 20 is observed in Azerbaijan not only as a day of mourning but also as a day of pride and remembrance. The Azerbaijani people honor the memory of all those who gave their lives for the country's independence, territorial integrity, and sovereignty. Commemoration of the January 20 tragedy is also a commitment to the future.

Azerbaijan once again reaffirms its determination to take consistent and resolute measures to prevent the recurrence of crimes against humanity and violations of international law. The memory of January 20 remains a powerful reminder that the will of a nation striving for freedom can never be silenced by force. (edited by David Kendall)