Astana, Kazakhstan – A gesture of musical solidarity at the “Silk Way Star” vocal competition has ignited a national debate in Azerbaijan.Samira Efendi, representing Azerbaijan on the competition’s jury, awarded the maximum 12 points to Armenian contestant Saro Gevorgyan during the final night, accompanied by a hug that sparked both praise and outrage.
Efendi explained her decision, stating, “I want peace in the whole world and I cannot interfere with you. I give you 12 points on behalf of Azerbaijan.” She later affirmed her stance in a Baku television appearance, declaring, ”I am not a politician. Music is a stronger language than politics for me.I did nothing wrong and I will not apologize.” Efendi expressed optimism for future reconciliation, adding, ”Eventually there will be peace, we will come and go from each other.”
The competition, billed as Asia’s first major vocal competition, featured seven finalists from armenia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, China, Mongolia, and Uzbekistan. Gevorgyan ultimately placed fifth, while Azerbaijan’s representative did not advance to the final round. Michelle Joseph of Mongolia was crowned the winner.
The incident quickly escalated on Azerbaijani social media, reflecting the enduring sensitivities surrounding the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. critics condemned Efendi’s actions as disrespectful to those who lost their lives in the conflict, with one user telling the BBC, ”This behavior is an insult to the memory of those who lost their lives in Karabakh.”
Conversely, supporters hailed Efendi’s gesture as a courageous step towards peace, arguing that “art and music are above politics.” Azerbaijani journalist Bahrus Aliyev observed, “Society is still not fully out of the war psychology. It is indeed easy to maintain hatred, but taking steps for peace requires courage,” characterizing Efendi’s act as “a purely humanitarian gesture.” Some Armenian users also joined the online conversation, expressing gratitude towards Efendi.
