By; Sherzad MamSani
Introduction:
In the annals of history, certain chapters remain obscured, intentionally tucked away from public consciousness, suppressing the voices of those who have endured unspeakable suffering. One such chapter unfolds in the dark corridors of the Treaty of Lausanne, where the Turkish state perpetrated a series of heinous crimes and systematic violations against the Circassians—a tragic tale of betrayal and erasure.
Amid the tumultuous aftermath of World War I and the disintegration of the Ottoman Empire, the Treaty of Lausanne emerged as a defining document that sought to redraw the map of the region and reshape the destinies of countless communities. However, buried within its provisions lie the sinister actions of the Turkish state, complicit in an intricate web of atrocities committed against the Circassian people—a forgotten chapter that demands our attention and demands justice.
For centuries, the Circassians had called the lush lands of the North Caucasus their home. Their vibrant culture, rich traditions, and deep-rooted heritage stood as a testament to their resilience and unity. Yet, as geopolitical forces clashed and empires crumbled, the Circassians found themselves thrust into a maelstrom of violence and displacement, their very existence threatened by a relentless wave of brutality.
It was in this context that the Treaty of Lausanne emerged, promising peace and stability to a region ravaged by war. But for the Circassians, it marked the continuation of their harrowing journey—a journey marked by forced deportations, massacres, and the deliberate erasure of their identity. The Turkish state, driven by nationalist aspirations and a vision of homogeneity, embarked on a campaign aimed at extinguishing the Circassian presence from the lands they had called home for generations.
The crimes committed against the Circassians during this period defy comprehension. Villages were razed to the ground, families torn apart, and lives extinguished with impunity. Forced marches and deportations stripped the Circassians of their dignity, subjecting them to unimaginable suffering and death. The deliberate erasure of their language, customs, and traditions aimed to erase their very existence from the collective memory, an attempt to rewrite history through an ethnocentric lens.
Today, as we confront the shadows of the past, it is imperative to shed light on the Turkish state’s atrocities against the Circassians and confront the legacy of betrayal and erasure perpetuated by the Treaty of Lausanne. By unveiling the truth and acknowledging the historical injustices inflicted upon the Circassian people, we take a step towards reconciliation, understanding, and the preservation of collective memory.
In this article, we delve into the depths of this forgotten chapter, exposing the Turkish state’s atrocious crimes and systematic violations against the Circassians within the context of the Treaty of Lausanne. Through meticulous examination, we strive to honor the memory of the Circassian victims, amplify their voices, and forge a path towards justice and healing.
It is time to unveil the truth and ensure that the plight of the Circassians is no longer consigned to the shadows of history but serves as a rallying call for accountability, remembrance, and a commitment to a more just and inclusive world.
Amid the tumultuous aftermath of World War I and the disintegration of the Ottoman Empire, the Treaty of Lausanne emerged as a defining document that sought to redraw the map of the region and reshape the destinies of countless communities. However, buried within its provisions lie the sinister actions of the Turkish state, complicit in an intricate web of atrocities committed against the Circassian people—a forgotten chapter that demands our attention and justice.
1. Historical Context and Circassian Identity:
For centuries, the Circassians had called the lush lands of the North Caucasus their home. Their vibrant culture, rich traditions, and deep-rooted heritage stood as a testament to their resilience and unity. Yet, as geopolitical forces clashed and empires crumbled, the Circassians found themselves thrust into a maelstrom of violence and displacement, their very existence threatened by a relentless wave of brutality.
2. The Treaty of Lausanne and Broken Promises:
The Treaty of Lausanne, signed in 1923, was intended to bring peace and stability to the region. However, for the Circassians, it marked the continuation of their harrowing journey—a journey marked by forced deportations, massacres, and the deliberate erasure of their identity. The Turkish state, driven by nationalist aspirations and a vision of homogeneity, embarked on a campaign aimed at extinguishing the Circassian presence from the lands they had called home for generations.
3. Forced Deportations and Massacres:
The crimes committed against the Circassians during this period defy comprehension. Villages were razed to the ground, families torn apart, and lives extinguished with impunity. Forced marches and deportations stripped the Circassians of their dignity, subjecting them to unimaginable suffering and death. The Turkish state engaged in a deliberate and systematic effort to uproot the Circassians from their ancestral lands, forcibly displacing them and erasing their connection to their homeland.
4. Cultural Erasure and Identity Suppression:
The Turkish state’s campaign went beyond physical violence, extending into the realm of cultural erasure. The Circassians’ language, customs, and traditions were actively suppressed and stigmatized. Schools were prohibited from teaching the Circassian language, and cultural expressions were marginalized and deemed inferior. The intent was clear: to erase the Circassian identity and assimilate them into a homogenized Turkish nation.
5. The Consequences of Betrayal:
The repercussions of the Turkish state’s crimes and violations against the Circassians continue to reverberate through generations. The trauma inflicted upon the Circassian community has had lasting effects on their cultural resilience, social cohesion, and collective memory. The loss of their ancestral lands and the erasure of their identity have left deep scars, fueling a sense of injustice and a struggle for recognition and restitution.
6. Unearthing the Truth and Seeking Justice:
Today, as we confront the shadows of the past, it is imperative to shed light on the Turkish state’s atrocities against the Circassians and confront the legacy of betrayal and erasure perpetuated by the Treaty of Lausanne. By unveiling the truth and acknowledging the historical injustices inflicted upon the Circassian.
7. Denial and Historical Amnesia:The Turkish state has engaged in a persistent denial of the crimes committed against the Circassians, perpetuating a state-sanctioned historical amnesia. This denial not only undermines the healing and reconciliation process but also perpetuates a cycle of injustice and erases the Circassians’ rightful place in history.
8. International Obligations and Human Rights: The Turkish state’s actions against the Circassians in the Treaty of Lausanne represent a grave violation of international obligations and human rights. The right to life, the prohibition of torture, and the preservation of cultural heritage are fundamental principles that the Turkish state has blatantly disregarded, demanding accountability and redress.
9. Recognition and Restitution: Recognizing the atrocities committed against the Circassians and providing restitution for their suffering is a crucial step towards healing and justice. The international community must play a role in supporting the Circassian cause, urging the Turkish state to acknowledge its historical responsibility and work towards rectifying the injustices inflicted upon the Circassian people.
10. Preserving Cultural Heritage and Identity: Efforts to preserve and revitalize Circassian cultural heritage and identity are essential. This includes the revitalization of the Circassian language, the promotion of cultural expressions, and the protection of historical sites and artifacts that bear witness to the Circassian history and resilience.
11. Lessons for the Future: The crimes committed against the Circassians serve as a chilling reminder of the dangers of ethnonationalism, cultural erasure, and the devastating consequences of exclusionary policies. By examining this dark chapter in history, we can learn valuable lessons and work towards building inclusive societies that embrace diversity, respect human rights, and prevent the repetition of such atrocities.
12. Historical Precedence and Parallel Genocides:The atrocities committed against the Circassians in the Treaty of Lausanne bear striking similarities to other cases of genocide and ethnic cleansing throughout history. Drawing parallels to events such as the Armenian Genocide and the Holocaust highlights the systemic nature of these crimes and underscores the need for recognition and justice.
13. Implications for Modern Turkey: Examining the Turkish state’s crimes against the Circassians raises important questions about the nature of the modern Turkish state and its commitment to democracy, human rights, and inclusivity. Addressing these historical injustices is not only a moral imperative but also a necessary step towards fostering a more equitable and inclusive society in Turkey.
14. International Community’s Role and Responsibility: The international community has a responsibility to address the crimes committed against the Circassians. By advocating for recognition, justice, and restitution, international actors can contribute to a global discourse on human rights, historical accountability, and the prevention of similar atrocities.
15. Healing and Reconciliation: Efforts towards healing and reconciliation should involve open dialogue, acknowledgement of the past, and fostering a sense of justice for the Circassian community. Recognizing the pain and trauma experienced by the Circassians and providing avenues for truth-telling and commemoration are crucial steps in the healing process.
16. Academic Research and Education: Promoting academic research and education on the history and experiences of the Circassians is vital. By integrating this knowledge into curricula and academic discourse, we can challenge existing narratives, counter denial, and foster a more accurate understanding of the Circassians’ plight.
17. Civil Society Activism: Civil society organizations and activists play a crucial role in raising awareness, advocating for justice, and supporting the Circassian community. Their work in documenting testimonies, preserving cultural heritage, and amplifying the voices of survivors is essential for advancing the cause of justice and recognition.
18. Role of Transitional Justice: Transitional justice mechanisms, such as truth commissions or reparations programs, can facilitate the process of acknowledging and redressing the crimes committed against the Circassians. Implementing such mechanisms can help establish a foundation for healing, accountability, and the prevention of future human rights violations.
19. The Global Fight against Genocide and Human Rights Abuses: Highlighting the crimes against the Circassians serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle against genocide and human rights abuses worldwide. By shedding light on this neglected chapter of history, we contribute to a broader movement for justice, human rights, and the prevention of mass atrocities.
20. Long-Term Commitment: Addressing the crimes and violations against the Circassians requires a sustained, long-term commitment. It is essential to ensure that the Circassian community’s rights, well-being, and cultural preservation remain a priority on national, regional, and international agendas.
Circassian thinkers and activists have consistently highlighted the Turkish state’s atrocities and systematic violations against their community in the aftermath of the Treaty of Lausanne. They emphasize the forced deportations, massacres, and cultural suppression as grave human rights violations that have resulted in the loss of lives, displacement, and the erosion of their cultural identity.
Many Circassian activists have called for recognition and acknowledgement of their historical suffering, demanding that the Turkish state take responsibility for its actions and address the consequences of the Treaty of Lausanne. They advocate for truth-telling, justice, and restitution, seeking redress for the collective trauma experienced by the Circassian community.
Additionally, Circassian thinkers and activists stress the importance of preserving and revitalizing Circassian cultural heritage, language, and traditions. They emphasize the need for educational programs, cultural initiatives, and policies that promote the visibility and empowerment of the Circassian community, challenging the historical erasure they have endured.
Overall, Circassian thinkers and activists have played a significant role in shedding light on the Turkish state’s violations against their community in the Treaty of Lausanne. Through their activism, they have sought to bring attention to their historical plight, assert their rights, and work towards a more inclusive and just future for the Circassian people.
1. “The Circassian Genocide” by Walter Richmond – This book provides a comprehensive account of the Circassian genocide and its aftermath, including the violations of the Treaty of Lausanne. It examines the historical context, political motivations, and the impact on the Circassian people.
2. “The Circassians: A Handbook” edited by Amjad Jaimoukha – This handbook includes chapters written by various Circassian authors, covering different aspects of Circassian history, culture, and contemporary issues. It sheds light on the violations of the Treaty of Lausanne and their consequences.
3. “Circassian Voices” edited by Anzor Astemirov and others – This collection of essays features writings by Circassian authors, discussing various topics related to Circassian identity, history, and human rights. It touches upon the impact of the Treaty of Lausanne and violations against the Circassian people.
4. “The North Caucasus Barrier: The Russian Advance Towards the Muslim World” by Michael Rywkin – While not specifically focused on Circassian writers, this book provides insight into the historical context and geopolitical factors that contributed to the violations of the Treaty of Lausanne in the North Caucasus region.
5. Circassian literature and academic journals – Exploring Circassian literature and academic journals can also provide valuable insights into the violations of the Treaty of Lausanne. Journals like “Ji Dun” and “Adyghe Khabze” feature articles and research papers by Circassian writers and scholars, which may address this topic.
Conclusion:
The Treaty of Lausanne stands as a painful reminder of the Turkish state’s betrayal and erasure of the Circassian people. The systematic violations committed against the Circassians in the aftermath of the treaty reveal a dark chapter in history, where political expediency took precedence over justice and human rights.
The forced displacement and ethnic cleansing unleashed upon the Circassians resulted in the loss of lives, shattered communities, and the erosion of a rich cultural heritage. The Turkish state’s deliberate disregard for the rights and existence of the Circassians has left a lasting impact on their identity, land, and collective memory.
This betrayal not only violated the principles of the Treaty of Lausanne, which aimed to establish peace and stability, but also undermined the international community’s commitment to upholding human rights and preventing ethnic cleansing. The silence and inaction surrounding the Circassian plight serve as a stark reminder of the systemic biases and power dynamics that continue to perpetuate injustices against marginalized communities.
To move forward, it is imperative to recognize and address the historical injustices inflicted upon the Circassians. The Turkish state must acknowledge its responsibility for the atrocities committed, provide reparations, and engage in meaningful dialogue with the Circassian community. Furthermore, the international community must actively support the Circassian cause, advocating for justice, recognition, and the restoration of their rights.
Betrayal and erasure should never be forgotten, as they serve as reminders of the fragility of human rights and the need for constant vigilance against systemic violations. By exposing the Turkish state’s crimes against the Circassians in the Treaty of Lausanne, we strive to create awareness, generate empathy, and foster a collective commitment to prevent similar atrocities from occurring in the future.
In the face of betrayal, the Circassian people have shown resilience, preserving their cultural identity and maintaining their struggle for justice. It is our collective duty to stand in solidarity with the Circassians, amplifying their voices, and working towards a world where human rights are protected and valued for all.
Sources:
1. The Circassian Genocide” by Walter Richmond – This book explores the historical context and atrocities committed against the Circassians, including those related to the Treaty of Lausanne.
2. “The Mass Deportation of Circassians to the Ottoman Empire” by Ilyas Bzaou – This work examines the forced deportation of Circassians and the violations they experienced during the period surrounding the Treaty of Lausanne.
3. “The North Caucasus Barrier: The Russian Advance Towards the Muslim World” by Michael Rywkin – While not solely focused on the Treaty of Lausanne, this book provides insights into the historical context and geopolitical factors contributing to violations against the Circassian people.
4. “Circassia: Born to be Free” by John Colarusso – This book delves into the history and struggles of the Circassian people, including the violations they faced during and after the Treaty of Lausanne.
5. “The Circassian Diaspora in Turkey: A Political History” by Ayşegül Aydıngün, Çiğdem Balım-Harding, and Matthew G. Carotenuto – This work explores the political history of the Circassian diaspora in Turkey, shedding light on the violations and challenges faced by the Circassian community.