One of the most intriguing and disturbing aspects of Bloxham’s book is how he articulates the callousness revolving around the politics of the Armenian Genocide. Many countries, including the United States, Russia, Germany, and Great Britain, displayed a certain amount of complacency. Those that vocally condemned the killings failed to substantiate their condemnation with tangible action. For example, the tribunals of Great Britain largely failed to translate prosecutions into any form of long-term punishment for those responsible for the killings. Many of these failings were the result of politics. Each country’s actions revolved around their own self-interest, which often did not include seeking retribution and recompense from those who perpetrated the genocide.
Politics continues to surround the memory of the Armenian genocide, trickling into modern-day interactions. The New York Times reported, in the wake of the 100th anniversary of the genocide, that Italy and the United States have avoided officially using the term genocide in regards to the atrocities committed against the Armenians due to “the importance they place on Turkey as an ally.” Repercussions have arisen from antagonizing Turkey on the matter. Pope Francis recently referred to the tragedy as “the first genocide of the 20th century”. In response, Turkey recalled their ambassador to the Holy See, with their Foreign Minister stating, “The Pope’s statement, which is far from historic and legal truths, is unacceptable. Religious positions are not places where unfounded claims are made and hatred is stirred.”
These current events illustrate the profound sensitivity and impact that is still associated with the Armenian Genocide, and the continued importance of political maneuvering in nation-state interactions. In many cases, it appears that the “practical” trumps the just. Perhaps the sad reality of many officials’ modern practicality is best described by the quote from the 5th chapter of Bloxham’s book. “What we are doing today is counterproductive… It is not in our best interests. it is not either strategically, militarily, or any other way… To singe out one segment of NATO, going back to an incident that occurred 70 years ago, what good does it do?” -Congressman James M. Leath.
Source: http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2015/04/12/world/europe/ap-eu-rel-vatican-armenians.html?_r=0