WCC News: WCC rejoices at liberation of four Armenian captives

World Council of Churches general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay rejoiced at the liberation of four Armenian captives—Gevorg Sujyan, Davit Davtyan, Vigen Euljekjian, and Vagif Khachatryan—who will safely return to Armenia from Azerbaijan.  Area close to the Lachin corridor between Armenia and Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) region. Photo: WCC 14 January 2026 “Their release brings relief and hope to their families after years of suffering and uncertainty,” said Pillay. “We give thanks for the release of these four individuals and rejoice with their families.” He reflected that every human life restored is a sign of hope. “At the same time, true and lasting peace cannot be achieved while others remain in captivity,” he added. “The World Council of Churches remains deeply concerned that 20 other Armenians are still held in Azerbaijani detention.” Pillay affirmed that genuine peace in this context requires the liberation of all hostages, respect for human dignity, and adherence to international humanitarian and human rights principles. “We continue to pray and to call for the release of those who are still detained, trusting that peace and justice must go hand in hand,” he concluded.  WCC member churches in Armenia See more

The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 356 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 580 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay from the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa. Media contact: +41 79 507 6363; www.oikoumene.org/press Our visiting address is: World Council of Churches Chemin du Pommier 42 Kyoto Building Le Grand-Saconnex CH-1218 Switzerland