04/24/2019 Turkey (International Christian Concern) – Today, the Armenian community is marking a commemoration of the 1915 Armenian genocide perpetuated by Ottoman Era Turkey. Prior to this genocide, there were two million Armenians living in the declining Ottoman Empire. Because of this genocide, many would flee to neighboring countries (such as Syria) where their descendants continue to face violent persecution. Today, only 60,000 Armenians live in Turkey.

Turkey continues to deny the genocide of Armenians, saying that the historical record of other countries is based on false information and that they should study Turkey’s Ottoman-era archives for so-called “accuracy.” The modern Turkish state would form just a few years after the Armenian genocide.

Armenian churches are regularly targeted by vandals who make threatening references to the genocide. The Turkish government heavily interferes in the Church’s ability to make its own governing decisions.  Armenians report threats and harassment on the streets. Although the genocide happened over 100 years, its implications are clearly felt by the few remaining Armenians as they navigate all aspects of Turkish society.

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