The Humanitarian Activity of American "Near East Relief" Organisation Among Western Armenian Refugees in 1915-1922

At the beginning of the 20th century, the majority of Western Armenians were subjected to genocidal policies carried out by the Ottoman Empire. These policies resulted in significant human losses and widespread deportations. Thousands of Western Armenians, particularly women and children, lost their families and support networks, leaving them orphaned and displaced. The Armenian diaspora required a coordinated programme of humanitarian and social assistance, which began to be implemented not only by Armenian charitable organisations and individual benefactors, but also with the involvement of various international institutions and missionary groups. In this context, the 'Near East Relief' organisation played a particularly significant role through its large-scale, systematic activities, making substantial contributions to the social protection, education and healthcare of displaced populations. The Near East Relief organisation's legacy significantly impacted the socio-economic development of the region, improving local economies and promoting educational advancement. Its programmes aimed to provide humanitarian aid and ensure long-term social stability in the area. During its fifteen years of operation, the organisation demonstrated a high level of humanitarianism and responsibility, contributing to the region's comprehensive development. Over its fifteen years of activity, Near East Relief grew into a major organisation that invested more than $116 million in saving Armenian refugees and 132,000 orphans. This powerful humanitarian institution spared no effort or resources during and after the Armenian Genocide, providing refugees with food, clothing and shelter. Combined with the humanitarian support of the American government and people, the efforts and resources of Near East Relief made it possible to save hundreds of thousands of Armenians and other people in need in the Near East from imminent destruction. Near East Relief's advocacy and practical measures made a significant contribution to protecting and supporting tens of thousands of refugees and orphans resulting from the Armenian Genocide, further strengthening the organisation's importance in the region. The study combines historical-comparative and analytical methods to achieve the goals and objectives set by the authors.