From 23 to 28 February 2026, the Presidential Library hosted a series of commemorative events and organized a photo exhibition dedicated to the 34th anniversary of the Khojaly tragedy. The events held particular public significance in terms of presenting historical truth on the basis of documentary evidence and preserving national memory.
On 23 February, the exhibition was formally inaugurated in conjunction with a conference titled “Khojaly: The Voice of the Voiceless through the Lens of Reza Deghati,” attended by the internationally acclaimed photojournalist Reza Deghati. The exhibition presented the author’s documentary photographs portraying the Khojaly tragedy and the aftermath of the war. The photographic materials vividly illustrated the scale of the events and their impact on people’s lives. During the conference, special attention was given to the conceptual and thematic framework of the exhibition, and the significance of documentary photography as a means of conveying historical truth to the international community was particularly emphasized.
On February 26, the Presidential Library hosted a commemorative event titled “Khojaly – 34: A Symbol of the Enduring Strength of National Memory”, marking the 34th anniversary of the Khojaly genocide. The program honored the victims of the tragedy, while the photographs and artistic installations presented during the event once again revived this painful chapter of national history within the collective consciousness. In their remarks, speakers underscored the critical importance of safeguarding national memory and educating younger generations on the foundation of verified historical facts.
Within the framework of the photo exhibition, representatives from various educational institutions of the capital explored the materials. Among the attendees were students from Secondary School No. 27 of the Khatai District, Secondary School No. 269, Secondary School No. 32, Secondary General Education School No. 138 in Baku, the MTK International School, and the Choreography Department within the Art Gymnasium under the Azerbaijan National Conservatory (ANC). Participants also included members of the “Theatrical Arts” club and the vocal ensemble of the Children and Youth Development Center No. 3 of Baku. Furthermore, the exhibition was visited by students from the Azerbaijan University of Architecture and Construction, ADA University, the Azerbaijan State University of Culture and Arts, Baku Slavic University, and the Azerbaijan Technical University, as well as volunteers representing the “Great Return” Organization and the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs, members of the Student Scientific Society of the Azerbaijan State Academy of Physical Education and Sport, and representatives of the Tatar Community of Azerbaijan.
The exhibition attracted considerable interest, with visitors examining it attentively. The photographic materials left a lasting and powerful impression, once again highlighting the suffering and enduring consequences that the tragedy imposed on countless lives. By presenting these visual testimonies, the exhibition reinforced patriotic consciousness and deepened understanding of the importance of preserving national memory, particularly among the younger generation.
The commemorative initiatives held at the Presidential Library form part of a consistent and systematic effort to perpetuate the remembrance of pivotal milestones in national history and to convey their significance to a broad audience. In this regard, the Presidential Library continues to implement educational programs grounded in reliable authoritative and well-documented historical sources.