Azerbaijan's National Olympic Committee (NOC) has officially protested to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) over a song chosen by Armenian figure skaters Karina Akopova and Nikita Rachmanin. The song in question, titled "Artsach," is claimed by Azerbaijan to contain political undertones that violate the Olympic Charter. This protest highlights ongoing tensions surrounding the use of symbols and representations related to the Nagorno-Karabakh region, which has been a focal point of territorial disputes between Armenia and Azerbaijan for decades.

The term "Artsach" historically refers to the province of ancient Armenian Kingdom and is commonly used by Armenians to denote the Nagorno-Karabakh region. This area has been embroiled in conflict since the collapse of the Soviet Union, leading to two major wars and numerous skirmishes, resulting in significant displacement of populations. The tensions resurfaced in 2020 and intensified in 2023 when Azerbaijan launched a rapid military operation to assert control over the region, emphasizing the complex historical and political significance of the area in the ongoing rivalry with Armenia.

This incident not only underscores the diplomatic sensitivities surrounding cultural representations in international sporting events but also raises questions about how music and art intersect with national narratives and historical grievances. The complaint is a reflection of the larger geopolitical struggles and the continuing impact of past conflicts on present-day interactions between nations, particularly in the context of the Olympic Games, which are ideally meant to promote peace and camaraderie among nations.