The Armenian Genocide: From Recognition to Reparations

Abstract

For centuries prior to the Armenian Genocide the Armenian Church was the spiritual, cultural, and social center of Armenian life in the Ottoman Empire. The genocide attacked the Church in order to destroy the broader community. The Church suffered greatly in the Genocide. Still of major concern today, is the expropriation and neglect of the Church’s extensive property in modern-day Turkey. The churches, other buildings and the lands on which they sit have tremendous importance to Armenians around the world. They are necessary to the functioning and recovery of the Armenian Church that is central to Armenian life and identity. As part of a reparations process for Armenians, the return of Church properties is crucial and is justified.