Azerbaijanis Seek Return to Homes Fled Decades Ago in Karabakh, But Face Uncertainty After Ethnic Conflict

Azerbaijanis who fled separatist Karabakh region decades ago hope to return now that Azerbaijan controls it again, but it may take years.

Around 700,000 fled amid violence that started in 1988 and became war until 1994 when Armenia took control.

Azerbaijan regained control in 2020 war and subsequent offensive in 2022 forced Armenian separatists out.

Azerbaijan has a program to rebuild region and bring back displaced people but only 2,000 have returned so far.

Returnees unsure what they'll find - homes may be destroyed after 30 years. Overcoming past ethnic enmity may also be difficult.