Sayfo Genocide commemorated in Siebnen, Switzerland

SIEBNEN, Switzerland — On the solemn occasion of the 110th anniversary of the Sayfo Genocide, during which approximately 1.5 million Armenians, Syriacs (Arameans–Assyrians–Chaldeans), and Greeks were massacred at the hands of the Ottoman Empire and its allies, a memorial event was held at the Catholic Church in Siebnen, Switzerland. The gathering was organized by the Aramaic Association in Switzerland in cooperation with the Nusaybin Endowment and Research Center.

The event began with a moment of silence in honor of the martyrs, attended by members of both organizing institutions, members of the Catholic Church, and Father Karim Asmar. Teshmeshto prayers were offered for the souls of the victims, accompanied by solemn musical performances reflecting the tone of the occasion.

Representatives of the organizing bodies, along with Father Asmar, delivered speeches addressing the Ottoman Empire’s motives and plans behind the genocide, as well as the ongoing efforts to seek justice for the victims.

Attendees were given the opportunity to ask questions, share reflections, and express their views on the Sayfo.

In addition to candle lighting and the sharing of refreshments, the event featured an exhibition of artworks and illustrations depicting the brutal massacres inflicted upon the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) people.

This memorial was one of several organized by Syriac institutions around the world, serving as a tribute to the memory of the martyrs of Sayfo and a reaffirmation of the community’s collective remembrance.