Newsfeed – CIVILNET Speaking up for immigrants at #NoKings rallies Jun 15, 2025 8:25 pm Millions join the no Kings rallies across the US to protest President Donald Trump’s immigration policies. Armenian voices from California speak out. Pashinyan warns airstrikes on Iran endanger regional stability Jun 13, 2025 10:05 pm Armenia condemned Israel’s airstrikes on Iran as a threat to regional and global stability, urging an immediate halt to hostilities. Pashinyan may visit Turkey next week amid stalled Armenia-Turkey… Third Annual Yerevan International Ballet Festival Jun 13, 2025 9:05 pm Yerevan hosted the world-renowned Russian ballet companies for its third annual international ballet festival. The highly anticipated week-long event drew over 100,000 people to watch a myriad of pieces,… World Vision’s support for Armenia’s most vulnerable Jun 13, 2025 8:05 pm Eleanor Monbiot, OBE, Regional Director for the Middle East and Eastern Europe at World Vision, discusses the humanitarian organization’s evolving role in Armenia as it transitions to a locally led,… The Gold That Inflated Armenia: How Windfall Russian Money Triggered a ‘Dutch Disease’ Jun 13, 2025 4:29 pm By Arshaluis Mgdesyan Over the course of two years, Armenia suddenly transformed into a quiet haven for Russian gold. Amid sanctions, war, and Russia’s growing geopolitical isolation, Armenia became… Fact-Check: Did Armenian PM Buy a €3.1M Villa in France? Jun 13, 2025 3:55 pm Shushan Stepanyan, #CivilNetСheck On May 30, information circulated on Armenian social media and news outlets claiming that Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan had purchased a luxurious €3.1 million villa… Armenia condemns Israeli strikes on Iran Jun 13, 2025 12:12 pm By Alexander Pracht Armenia’s Foreign Ministry on Friday condemned Israel’s overnight airstrikes on Iran and urged all parties to immediately cease hostilities and respect international law. “The… Six killed in apartment building explosion in Armenia Jun 12, 2025 10:05 pm A gas explosion in a residential apartment building in the Armenian town of Chambarak killed six people and injured 11 others. The Armenian government launched a pilot program to subsidize companies that… After Operation Sindoor, India Looks to Armenia Jun 12, 2025 7:57 pm Dr. Abhinav Pandya, Founder and Director of the India-based Usanas Foundation, explores the rapid strengthening of strategic ties between India and Armenia following last month’s India–Pakistan conflict,… Fines set to rise as Yerevan battles construction violations Jun 12, 2025 7:05 pm Construction site violations across Yerevan have left residents frustrated. City Hall has promised to enforce stricter protective measures and fines to prevent further distress to residents. Team Group, Firebird, NVIDIA launch a $500 million AI project in Armenia Jun 12, 2025 11:32 am By Alexander Pracht Firebird, a San Francisco and Yerevan-based AI cloud company, announced Wednesday a $500 million public-private partnership with the Armenian government, backed by U.S. tech giant… Catholicos Karekin II evades Pashinyan’s allegations of broken vows Jun 11, 2025 10:05 pm A coalition of more than 25 international civil society groups condemned a lawsuit filed by Armenia’s largest mine against eight strike leaders. Catholicos Karekin II did not directly dismiss Prime… How Armenia and the International Criminal Court empower each other Jun 11, 2025 8:05 pm Dr. Silvia Fernández de Gurmendi, former President of the International Criminal Court and a leading voice in international criminal justice, explains why Armenia’s recent ratification of the Rome… Yerevan International Ballet Festival Jun 11, 2025 2:15 pm Armenia’s Deputy PM receives Regional President of Philip Morris International Jun 11, 2025 12:57 pm Armenia’s Deputy Prime Minister Tigran Khachatryan received the delegation led by Frederic de Wilde, Regional President of Philip Morris International for South and Southeast Asia, CIS, Middle East… Baku outraged at Moscow’s comparison of Karabakh, Ukraine wars Jun 10, 2025 10:05 pm Azerbaijan condemned an aide to Russian President Vladimir Putin for comparing the Ukraine war to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan escalates his feud with the Armenian Church… Civil society condemns retaliation against Zangezur mine strikers Jun 10, 2025 5:07 pm By Elen Muradyan A coalition of over 25 international civil society groups strongly condemned what it calls “retaliation” by the Zangezur Copper and Molybdenum Combine (ZCMC) against eight Armenian… Pashinyan launches ‘coordinating council’ to oust Catholicos Jun 10, 2025 1:26 pm By Elen Muradyan Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan escalated his public campaign to remove Catholicos Karekin II, the spiritual leader of the Armenian Apostolic Church, announcing the formation… Putin’s aide draws fire in Baku for comparing Ukraine war to Karabakh conflict Jun 10, 2025 11:05 am By Alexander Pracht Vladimir Medinsky, an aide to Russian President Vladimir Putin and head of Russia’s delegation in nominal peace talks with Ukraine, sparked outrage in Azerbaijan after likening Russia’s… Armenia’s largest opposition group backs removal bid against Pashinyan Jun 09, 2025 10:05 pm Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan says the head of the national Church must resign due to allegations of having broken his celibacy vow. Armenia’s opposition backs a symbolic removal effort… Armenia’s tightrope-walk between Russia and the West Jun 09, 2025 8:21 pm Dr. Robert English, Director of Central European Studies at the University of Southern California, evaluates the state of Armenia’s foreign policy as the country navigates a complex geopolitical environment,… BP launches $2.9B third phase of Shah Deniz gas field Jun 09, 2025 2:44 pm The article was published in World Energy Weekly (June 3-9 issue), a publication of Petrostrategies, a French think tank. Since BP entered Azerbaijan in 1992, the British group and its partners have developed… Pashinyan demands Catholicos Karekin II resign Jun 09, 2025 1:56 pm By Alexander Pracht Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan called for the resignation of Catholicos Karekin II on Sunday, claiming that the head of the Armenian Apostolic Church had violated his celibacy… Armenia Stock Exchange joins UAE platform to boost foreign investment: THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS Jun 07, 2025 7:05 pm Russia’s food safety agency threatened to suspend imports of Armenian-grown flowers, throwing the booming, multimillion-dollar trade in serious doubt. Read more. Armenia’s economy minister indicated… Baku’s ‘Western Azerbaijan’ rhetoric threat against Armenia, foreign minister says Jun 06, 2025 10:05 pm Armenia’s Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan warned that Azerbaijan’s statements referring to so-called “Western Azerbaijan” are a direct threat to Armenia’s territorial integrity. Two teenagers… Armenia should prioritize EU integration over membership, expert says Jun 06, 2025 5:51 pm By Arshaluis Mgdesyan Armenia should focus on deepening integration with the European Union rather than pursuing full membership, according to European integration expert Mane Adamyan. In an interview… Armenian detainees remain in limbo as Azerbaijan unwilling to negotiate Jun 05, 2025 10:05 pm Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan held a phone call to discuss regional issues and continued dialogue, despite lacking formal diplomatic ties. The fate… No Right to Forget: Armenia’s Duty to Artsakh Jun 05, 2025 9:03 pm Op-ed by Vartan Oskanian, Armenia’s former foreign minister (1998-2008) In the aftermath of the forced displacement of Armenians from Nagorno Karabakh, many in Armenia seek answers—some out of grief,… AI-Generated Fake Videos of Ukraine’s Operation Spider’s Web Go Viral on Social Media Jun 05, 2025 7:24 pm Hayk Hovhannisyan, #CivilNetCheck Social media platforms have been flooded with videos purporting to show the aftermath of strikes on Russian military airfields from Ukraine's "Operation Spider's Web."… Pashinyan, Erdoğan hold rare phone conversation Jun 05, 2025 4:03 pm By Alexander Pracht Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan spoke by phone on Thursday, discussing bilateral ties and regional developments, according to a… What is Team Telecom Armenia’s environmental “footprint”? Jun 05, 2025 12:37 pm Sponsored content "Beat Plastic Pollution." This year, World Environment Day on June 5th is dedicated to the fight against plastic. CivilNet spoke with Team Telecom Armenia's environmental and social… Assault on the Church: A Growing Danger to Rights and Democratic Values Jun 05, 2025 12:31 pm By Aram Tadevosyan Democracy Watch - On May 29, during a government session, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, speaking about the condition of historical and cultural monuments, remarked that our churches… Armenian, Azerbaijani commissions meet to discuss missing persons Jun 04, 2025 10:05 pm Representatives of Armenia and Azerbaijan met to discuss humanitarian issues related to individuals who went missing during the conflict between the two nations. A group of Armenian alcohol producers… Pashinyan vs. the Church: A War of Words Jun 04, 2025 8:05 pm In this episode of the CivilNet podcast, political commentator Eric Hacopian breaks down the escalating war of words between Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and the Armenian Apostolic Church.… India offers Armenia weapons with no political conditions, military experts say Jun 04, 2025 5:42 pm By Arshaluys Mghdesyan India is offering Armenia its full range of domestically produced weapons without any political preconditions, unlike other suppliers, military expert Eduard Arakelyan said during… Court hears CivilNet case against Avinyan over media insult Jun 04, 2025 3:50 pm By Gevorg Tosunyan The Yerevan Civil Court on Monday heard arguments in a defamation case brought by the Civilitas Foundation, parent organization of CivilNet, against Yerevan Mayor Tigran Avinyan over… Armenian spirits producers appeal to WTO over Georgia’s transit disruption Jun 04, 2025 12:17 pm By Alexander Pracht A group of Armenian alcohol producers appealed to domestic and international bodies, including the World Trade Organization (WTO), to urgently address what they describe as a growing… Armenian church accuses Pashinyan of political attack Jun 03, 2025 10:05 pm The Armenian Apostolic Church hit back at Pashinyan’s accusations, saying his “anti-Church stance is clearly driven by political motives” endangering Armenian statehood and national cohesion. … Armenia adopts crypto oversight law amid industry backlash Jun 03, 2025 9:29 pm By Alexander Pracht The Armenian parliament adopted a long-awaited bill regulating the cryptoasset sector last Thursday, drawing sharp criticism from industry representatives. Officials from the Central… Not just a school but a hub for regional revival Jun 03, 2025 8:05 pm Civilnet sits down with Aren Deyirmenjian, the Armenia Representative of the Armenian Missionary Association of America (AMAA), to discuss their groundbreaking educational initiative. From a unique tuition-free… Russia to halt flower imports from Armenia over alleged pests Jun 03, 2025 3:18 pm By Alexander Pracht Russia’s Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance announced Monday that it will impose a temporary ban on flower imports from Armenia starting June 16 due to… French diplomatic presence arrives in Armenia’s Syunik province Jun 02, 2025 10:05 pm France opened its long-planned honorary consulate in the southern Armenian town of Goris. Pashinyan escalated his long-running feud with the Armenian Apostolic Church by publicly accusing Catholicos… Armenian Church accuses PM Pashinyan of political attack Jun 02, 2025 9:09 pm By Zhanna Avagyan Armenian Apostolic Church accused Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan of launching a politically motivated campaign to undermine the Church, in a sharply worded declaration issued at a June… Inside the U.S. lobbying effort to support Armenia Jun 02, 2025 8:05 pm Tim Jemal, president of the non-partisan advocacy organization Global ARM, shares how his organization is reshaping U.S. policy toward Armenia through strategic lobbying and bipartisan outreach. He discusses… Visa SecurePay survey reveals more than three-quarters of Armenians frequently shop online Jun 02, 2025 4:58 pm Sponsored content As part of the ongoing SecurePay campaign in Armenia, Visa conducted a nationwide online consumer survey focused on security and online shopping. The findings reveal a growing reliance… Pashinyan escalates conflict with Armenian Church Jun 02, 2025 3:15 pm By Alexander Pracht Tensions between Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and the Armenian Apostolic Church reignited last week after Pashinyan launched a profanity-laced tirade against the Church… Armenia moves to regulate real estate agents with licensing, fines, and mandatory tax compliance Jun 02, 2025 3:10 pm By Lia Avagyan Armenia’s government approved draft legislation last Thursday that would formally regulate the country’s real estate brokerage sector for the first time, imposing mandatory registration,… France opens honorary consulate in Armenia’s Syunik region Jun 02, 2025 2:33 pm By Alexander Pracht France opened an honorary consulate in the southern Armenian town of Goris on Monday, marking a symbolic step in deepening its presence in the southernmost Syunik Province. The new… The admiral who defied orders to save a people May 31, 2025 8:05 pm In 1915, Admiral Louis Dartige du Fournet took it upon himself to rescue 4,000 Armenians from certain death on Musa Dagh. Over a century later, Armenia honored his legacy by enshiring him among the foreign… Armenia’s Zangezur mine seeks $12M from fired strike organizers: THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS May 31, 2025 7:05 pm The Zangezur mine, one of Armenia’s largest and most profitable companies, is seeking $12 million in damages from former employees who led a strike earlier this year in protest of what they called low… Pashinyan’s attacks on the Church betray his own insecurity May 31, 2025 2:49 pm Op-ed by Vartan Oskanian, Armenia's former foriegn minister (1998-2008) In a time of deep national crisis—after the loss of Artsakh, the displacement of over 120,000 of our compatriots, and the looming… Pashinyan uses profanity in latest attack on church leadership May 30, 2025 10:05 pm Armenia talks peace with a visiting U.S. official, but Baku’s preconditions - particularly the demand for a land corridor - continue to block a final agreement amid renewed border tensions. Turkey and… Armenia’s football star Mkhitaryan to play in Champions League final May 30, 2025 7:17 pm Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Armenia’s biggest football star and Inter Milan’s midfield juggernaut, will get what could be his last chance to win the UEFA Champions League, the world’s most prestigious club… Arriving in Armenia for beautiful smiles and noses May 30, 2025 3:56 pm By Anna Yeganyan Ekaterina Malkova had access to countless plastic surgeons in Moscow, but none of their work impressed her. "It was important to me that the surgeon's work appealed to me 10 out of… Armenians follow politics but reject political parties, survey shows May 30, 2025 2:29 pm By Alexander Pracht Armenia is a country that experienced a dramatic surge in political engagement during and immediately after the 2018 Velvet Revolution, when massive crowds took to the streets to demand… Lines Across Time: Istanbul, Old and New May 30, 2025 10:45 am For most, a city is a place. For Levon Lachikyan, Istanbul became a pilgrimage—one rendered not in footsteps but in ink, flowing deliberately line by line. An acclaimed Armenian illustrator and art… Controversy stalls Armenia’s new conscription legislation May 29, 2025 10:05 pm Armenia’s leadership continues discussing a controversial new conscription bill which, if adopted, will allow young men to significantly decrease their service term should they make a substantial payment… Why Armenia’s new army conscription law misses the point May 29, 2025 7:57 pm In this episode of Insights, host Eric Hacopian focuses on Armenia’s conscription reforms, and asks if it’s the correct approach to solving the military’s many issues. Hacopian breaks down the key… Hye Notes: The Rise of Armenian Jazz May 29, 2025 7:14 pm For those who know where to listen, there’s a rich and vibrant Armenian jazz scene pulsing beneath Yerevan’s surface, one that’s both deeply rooted in tradition and boldly reaching into new sonic… Designing schools that help children thrive May 29, 2025 5:28 pm Ian Craig, Professor at the University of Buckingham, joins Aram Pakhchanian to reflect on how schools can adapt to provide effective education to children and be a place for broader learning beyond just… The hidden politics of Armenia’s constitutional impasse May 29, 2025 2:16 pm By Tigran Mughnetsian and Armen Mazmanyan The article was originally published on Constitutionnet.org In early 2025, despite years of delayed reform efforts and limited public engagement, the Armenian… Border delimitation strengthens Armenian sovereignty, reduces vulnerability, deputy PM says May 29, 2025 1:24 pm By Alexander Pracht Armenia is reinforcing its sovereignty and minimizing security risks through the ongoing border delimitation process with Azerbaijan, the country’s Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan… May 28: A Celebration Shadowed by Undermined Sovereignty May 28, 2025 10:24 pm Op-ed by Vartan Oskanian, Armenia's former foreign minister (1998-2008) Each year on May 28, Armenians around the world pause to commemorate the establishment of the First Republic of Armenia in 1918—a… Armenia, Hungary eye embassy openings to boost cooperation May 27, 2025 10:04 pm A Swiss parliamentary committee — established to support the right of return for displaced Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh — held its inaugural session in Bern. Armenia and Hungary’s foreign ministers… Armenians trust the church and army most, distrust politicians and media May 27, 2025 4:22 pm By Nanor Froundjian Religious organizations take the lead, politics take a fall Political parties and media organizations rank among the least trusted institutions in Armenia, while religious institutions… Between gunfire and resolve in Armenia’s border villages May 27, 2025 11:27 am By Nanor Froundjian Everyday life under constant threat Azerbaijani forces have intermittently opened fire on Armenian villages in the Syunik Province since early spring, including Khnatsakh and… Swiss parliamentary group launches initiative on Karabakh Armenians’ right of return May 27, 2025 9:57 am By Zhanna Avagyan A Swiss parliamentary committee supporting the right of return for forcibly displaced Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh held its inaugural session in Bern on May 26, reaffirming Switzerland’s… Pashinyan talks peace as Yerevan hosts international forum May 26, 2025 10:05 pm The Yerevan Dialogue international forum began with a hopeful address from Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan who said normalization with Baku is within reach. France will open an honorary consulate… It is time to materialize a Palestine state May 26, 2025 9:44 pm The world should expand all efforts that are needed to stop the war in the Gaza Strip, says Varsen Aghabekian, the Palestinian Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Expatriates. At the 2025 Yerevan… Armenia can be a strategic gateway for India to Europe: Indian expert May 26, 2025 5:31 pm India has rapidly ascended to become Armenia's largest defense supplier, overtaking traditional partners in just three years. Dr. Swasti Rao, geopolitical expert and defense consultant to India's Ministry… Armenia’s Ombudsperson raises disparity concerns over new conscription bill May 26, 2025 4:34 pm By Alexander Pracht Armenia’s Ombudsperson Anahit Manasyan raised serious concerns over a legislative proposal that would allow citizens to shorten their mandatory military service in exchange for a… Yerevan Dialogue begins with Pashinyan’s call to sign peace deal despite new demands May 26, 2025 4:28 pm By Paul Vartan Sookiasian The 2nd annual Yerevan Dialogue international forum began Monday with a hopeful address from Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan about the possibility and benefits of a normalization… IDeA honors Vardanyan’s work on his 57th birthday May 25, 2025 6:50 pm The Armenia-based IDeA Foundation founded in 2014 by Ruben Vardanyan and his wife, Veronika Zonabend. The foundation operates over 100 large and small projects, most long-term, and almost all supported… Armenia lifts visa requirements for Gulf states in bid to boost tourism: THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS May 24, 2025 7:05 pm Armenia will lift visa requirements for citizens of Bahrain, Oman, and Saudi Arabia in a bid to boost tourism and attract more foreign investments. Armenian officials confirmed they are in talks with… New suspects arrested in 2020 Yerevan riot investigation May 23, 2025 10:05 pm Nine more people were arrested in connection with the mass unrest that erupted in Yerevan on November 10, 2020, following the announcement of the ceasefire agreement ending the Second Nagorno-Karabakh… When Armenia turned to EU: Fact-checking Lavrov’s statement May 23, 2025 5:52 pm Hayk Hovhannisyan, #CivilNetCheck Speaking in Yerevan on May 21, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov asserted that the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), of which Armenia is a member,… U.S. pivots to commercial strategy in Armenia-Azerbaijan relations May 23, 2025 4:48 pm By Paul Vartan Sookiasian A recent statement from U.S. President Donald Trump administration envoy Steve Witkoff that Armenia and Azerbaijan may soon join the Abraham Accords has raised a number… Lavrov’s Yerevan Visit: Crisis Management, Not Alliance Revival May 23, 2025 3:19 pm By Tigran Grigoryan Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov paid a working visit to Armenia on Wednesday following earlier visits by his Armenian counterpart Ararat Mirzoyan to Moscow and Prime Minister… Armenia’s budget underspent by $620 mln in Q1, report finds May 23, 2025 1:49 pm By Elen Muradyan Armenia’s industrial output shrank by a staggering 18.5% in the first quarter of 2025, the sharpest contraction in recent years, raising red flags about the government's ability to… Rubio: U.S. Aims to Prevent Azerbaijani Invasion of Armenia May 22, 2025 10:05 pm Secretary of State Marco Rubio told Congress the U.S. is working to prevent an Azerbaijani invasion of Armenia, amid bipartisan calls to enforce military aid restrictions and secure the release of prisoners… From the Abraham Accords to India: Armenia’s Headlines Explained May 22, 2025 8:05 pm In this episode of the CivilNet podcast, political analyst Eric Hacopian covers some of the major developments in Armenia this week. He addresses speculation around Yerevan’s potential inclusion in… France, Russia delayed in opening Syunik consulates May 22, 2025 6:47 pm By Alexander Pracht In September 2023, French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna announced that the country would open a consulate in Syunik province, Armenia’s southernmost province. Speaking before… Support of ruling party declines as more Armenians feel unrepresented, survey shows May 22, 2025 4:08 pm By Alexander Pracht Most Armenians do not feel represented by any political force, according to the latest Caucasus Barometer survey published on Wednesday. Additionally, public trust in state institutions… Armenian government approves pay-to-avoid-service bill, triggering public backlash May 22, 2025 3:26 pm By Lia Avagyan Armenia's government approved a controversial reform proposal on Wednesday that would allow young men to pay to significantly shorten their mandatory military service, sparking fresh concerns… Alleged Armenian crime syndicate members arrested in California, Florida May 22, 2025 9:56 am Thirteen alleged members and associates of Armenian organized crime syndicates were arrested in California and Florida on Tuesday amid a power struggle between groups operating out of Los Angeles County. … Armenia and the Abraham Accords: Strategic Opportunity or Diplomatic Trap? May 22, 2025 9:44 am By Hrair Balian and Raffy Ardhaldjian The article was originally published on Asbarez.com The Abraham Accords, launched in 2020 under the Trump administration (first term), marked a major shift in Middle… Russian foreign minister arrives in Armenia, says countries remain allies May 21, 2025 10:05 pm A cross-party committee of 19 Swiss parliamentarians will launch an initiative next week to support the return of displaced Armenians to Nagorno-Karabakh. This move is opposed by the country’s foreign… The Armenian Genocide: From Recognition to Restitution May 21, 2025 8:05 pm Dr. Taner Akçam, a renowned Turkish historian and the inaugural director of the Armenian Genocide Research Program of the Promise Armenian Institute at UCLA, joins CivilNet to discuss the need to shift… Armenian media organizations criticize broadcasting regulator head May 21, 2025 1:22 pm By Elen Muradyan Armenian media organizations have issued a joint statement criticizing the head of the country's Television and Radio Commission (TRC) following his controversial remarks about media… Swiss deputies form committee to back Nagorno-Karabakh initiative May 20, 2025 10:08 pm By Elen Muradyan A cross-party committee of 19 Swiss parliamentarians will launch an initiative on May 26 to support the return of displaced Armenians to Nagorno-Karabakh, marking Switzerland's latest… Yerevan’s parks burdened by millions in unpaid leases May 20, 2025 10:05 pm Armenia’s opposition failed to launch a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister NIkol Pashinyan. CivilNet found that businesses leasing Yerevan park land owe nearly $2.6 million, exposing systemic… The legacy of Operation Nemesis May 20, 2025 8:05 pm Author Birgit Kofler joins CivilNet to explore the history and legacy of Operation Nemesis - the covert mission to assassinate the orchestrators of the Armenian Genocide. Drawing from her book "I Have… Unmasking the “Secret Biolabs” Disinformation Plot in Armenia May 20, 2025 2:14 pm Hayk Hovhannisyan, #CivilNetCheck Since February 2025, claims have been widely circulated in the media and social networks asserting that Western pharmaceutical companies are operating "secret biolabs"… Yet another opposition bid to oust Pashinyan fails amid internal divisions May 20, 2025 2:08 pm By Alexander Pracht Armenia’s parliamentary opposition has failed to unite behind a motion of no confidence in Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan due to internal disagreement, despite holding just enough… Kocharyan talks security, ties with Russia May 19, 2025 10:05 pm Former President Robert Kocharyan urged Armenia to restore strategic ties with Russia, warning that Western security guarantees are unreliable. Nor Nork district head Davit Ter-Margaryan resigned amid… Kocharyan: Armenia Must Restore Strategic Partnership with Russia May 19, 2025 2:20 pm By Elen Muradyan Armenia’s second President Robert Kocharyan has called for the restoration of strategic ties with Russia, warning that the country cannot ensure its own security without deeper regional… Yerevan district administration head resigns amid assault charges May 19, 2025 2:16 pm By Alexander Pracht The head of Yerevan’s Nor Nork district administration stepped down on Monday, three weeks after a violent altercation in the local administration headquarters led to criminal… Israeli broadcaster apologizes after controversial remark on Armenian Quarter May 19, 2025 11:12 am By Alexander Pracht A remark made by an Israeli commentator during the live broadcast of this year’s Eurovision Song Contest on Thursday sparked backlash from Armenian communities worldwide. Shortly… Armenian museums meet the future May 17, 2025 10:05 pm Armenia celebrates International Museum Day with Museum Night on May 17–18! Over 100 museums across the country will be open for free with special exhibits, events, and extended hours. Don’t miss… Armenia’s first major solar plant comes online: THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS May 17, 2025 7:05 pm Masrik-1, Armenia’s first major solar power plant, came online, as the country continues to see a rapid growth in renewable energy generation. That helps put Armenia, which has set a 50% renewable energy… Pashinyan, Aliyev hold rare meeting in Albania May 16, 2025 10:05 pm Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan had brief encounters with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on the sidelines of a summit in Albania. Armenia’s Interior… Pashinyan, Aliyev hold brief meeting in Albania on normalization deal May 16, 2025 5:37 pm By Alexander Pracht Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev held a rare brief conversation on the sidelines of the European Political Community summit in Tirana,… “False and Sacrilegious”: Russian Ambassador Condemns Armenian Official’s WWII Claims May 16, 2025 1:28 pm By Lia Avagyan Russian Ambassador to Armenia Sergey Kopyrkin has strongly condemned statements made by Artsrun Hovhannisyan, the former spokesperson of Armenia's Defense Ministry, regarding World War… Armenia conceals agreement with Azerbaijan that terminated search for Karabakh war criminal May 16, 2025 12:14 pm By Hayk Hovhannisyan, #CivilNetCheck Armenia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs is refusing to disclose details of an agreement with Azerbaijan that led to the termination of a search for an Azerbaijani… U.S.-brokered Abraham Accords could include Armenia and Azerbaijan May 15, 2025 10:05 pm Armenia’s Foreign Ministry did not rule out joining regional peace efforts like the Abraham Accords, following remarks from a U.S. representative that Armenia and Azerbaijan might join. Armenian Foreign… Why Netanyahu’s Baku visit was scrapped May 15, 2025 8:03 pm In this episode of Insights, host Eric Hacopian covers three key developments shaping Armenia's regional and domestic landscape. He begins with the cancelled summit between Israeli and Turkish officials… Armenia’s gold trade decline raises questions about economic sustainability May 15, 2025 3:06 pm By Arshaluys Mghdesyan Armenia's gold trade has seen a dramatic collapse in early 2025, following a brief surge driven by geopolitical and policy shifts in the region during 2023-2024. In an interview… Armenia intensifies penalties for military training evasion amid personnel challenges May 15, 2025 2:25 pm By Elen Muradyan Armenia's government has approved new legislation that significantly strengthens penalties for citizens who evade mandatory military training assemblies, marking another step in the country's… Russia ready to offer various nuclear reactor designs to Armenia, says ambassador May 15, 2025 12:35 pm By Lia Avagyan Russia is ready to offer Armenia nuclear power plants with reactors of various capacities that feature enhanced safety and economic efficiency, Russian Ambassador to Armenia Sergey Kopyrkin… Armenia’s sole nuclear power plant suspends operation for two months May 14, 2025 10:05 pm In a years-long trial, a man named Ara Badoyan was sentenced to three and a half years in prison for his role in the 2020 assault on Ararat Mirzoyan, Armenia’s parliamentary speaker at the time. Armenia… Closing the gaps in Armenia’s cancer care May 14, 2025 8:05 pm Global health advocate Pat Garcia-Gonzalez, CEO of The Max Foundation, sits down with CivilNet to reflect on two decades of work in Armenia, highlighting the country’s significant progress in cancer… Lori Berd: Shades of Green May 14, 2025 2:56 pm The medieval fortress of Lori Berd and its namesake village are among the most picturesque spots in northern Armenia. Lori Berd fortress, rising above the Dzoraget River Gorge, and was founded by King… Armenia moves to close military conscription loopholes May 13, 2025 10:05 pm Armenia plans an overhaul of its military draft system, including stricter rules, higher penalties, and new service options to curb evasion. Armenian exporters protest Georgian customs delays, warning… Unexplained Georgian customs delays disrupt Armenian alcohol exports May 13, 2025 4:21 pm By Lia Avagyan A group of Armenian cognac producers and cargo transporters protested outside the Georgian Embassy in Yerevan on Tuesday, demanding clarity over what they describe as unjustified and disruptive… Trapped in His Own Justifications: The Pashinyan Dilemma May 13, 2025 3:08 pm Op-ed by Vartan Oskanian, Armenia’s former foreign minister (1998-2008) Today, as nearly all of us are focused on the goal of removing Nikol Pashinyan, regardless of the path by which that goal may… Armenia targets investment growth with new legal framework May 13, 2025 1:42 pm By Alexander Pracht Armenia’s Economy Ministry unveiled a draft of a new investment law last Wednesday, aiming to overhaul the country’s outdated legal framework for investments. Published for public… Armenia proposes fee-based options to shorten military service May 13, 2025 11:21 am By Elen Muradyan Armenia's ruling party has introduced a legislative proposal to reform the country’s conscription system, aiming to curb widespread draft evasion and boost military preparedness amid… Key Yerevan infrastructure projects remain stalled May 12, 2025 10:12 pm Armenia has voted to join the Ashgabat Agreement, with aims of becoming a strategic transit hub linking Central Asia to the Persian Gulf. A public tool that helped expose shadow employment in Armenia… Armenia’s energy transition stalls amid grid challenges and underinvestment May 12, 2025 8:05 pm Despite the government’s aspirations to increase the share of renewables in the energy sector, Armenia’s electric grid remains unprepared for rapid expansion, and authorities have done little to encourage… Armenia shuts down public access to tax records used to track shadow employment May 12, 2025 4:28 pm By Alexander Pracht A once-accessible public database that helped estimate the number of officially registered employees in Armenian companies is no longer functional, further limiting transparency into… Armenia joins Ashgabat Agreement on international transport corridor May 12, 2025 3:11 pm By Alexander Pracht The Armenian government voted on Thursday to join the Ashgabat Agreement, a multinational pact establishing an international transport and transit corridor linking Central Asia to… Yaghdan: A Greek Village in Armenia May 12, 2025 2:17 pm The Greek village of Yaghdan is located in Armenia’s northern Lori province. According to the regional administration website, it currently consists of roughly 100 residents, most of whom are Armenians.… Activists sue to halt financing of Armenia’s Amulsar gold mine: THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS May 10, 2025 7:05 pm A group of civil society organizations and concerned citizens filed a lawsuit challenging the Armenian government’s decision to grant the operator of the long-stalled Amulsar gold mine a $150 million… Pashinyan heads to Moscow despite strained Russia ties May 08, 2025 10:05 pm Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan will attend Moscow’s Victory Day celebrations tomorrow amid strained ties with Russia. Armenia voiced strong support for India’s right to self-defense after recent… What would it take to defeat Pashinyan? May 08, 2025 8:05 pm In this episode of the CivilNet podcast, commentator Eric Hacopian surveys the political field ahead of the 2026 Armenian parliamentary elections, which will pit Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan against… European Parliament calls for Ankara’s stronger role in Yerevan–Baku normalization May 08, 2025 1:50 pm By Alexander Pracht The European Parliament adopted a new report on Turkey during a plenary session on Wednesday, expressing support for the normalization of relations between Armenia and Turkey and urging… Armenian alcohol exports stuck at Georgia-Russia border amid customs delays, Azatutyun reports May 07, 2025 11:41 pm Dozens of Armenian trucks carrying alcoholic beverages have been stuck at the Georgia-Russia border in recent weeks, as Georgian customs authorities subject the shipments to unexpected laboratory testing,… Justice Minister: Draft of Armenia’s New Constitution Expected in 10 Months May 07, 2025 11:24 pm By Elen Muradyan Armenian Justice Minister Srbuhi Galyan said on Wednesday that no decision has yet been made on when the draft of a new Constitution will be put to a referendum. Speaking to reporters… Pashinyan heads to Moscow as Aliyev snubs Victory Day celebrations May 07, 2025 11:16 pm By Zhanna Avagyan Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan will travel to Moscow to take part in the May 9 Victory Day celebrations, underscoring what he described as Armenia’s “balanced and balancing”… Armenia affirms India’s right to self-defense amid renewed tensions with Pakistan May 07, 2025 10:58 pm By Elen Muradyan Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan has expressed support for India’s right to defend itself against terrorism amid a new escalation in tensions between India and Pakistan. Speaking… Former presidents argue over tactics to topple Pashinyan May 07, 2025 10:05 pm Tensions among Armenia’s opposition forces deepened as former President Robert Kocharyan’s Armenia Alliance accused Serzh Sargsyan’s We Are Awake movement of attempting to blackmail its MPs amid… Informal employment, low awareness hinder labor rights in Armenia May 07, 2025 4:17 pm By Alexander Pracht In a message marking International Labor Day last week, Armenia’s Human Rights Defender Anahit Manasyan acknowledged that the country continues to face a range of systemic challenges… EU–Azerbaijan relations are a blueprint for authoritarians May 07, 2025 2:06 pm Editorial from OC Media The EU looks the other way as Azerbaijan jails journalists and crushes dissent. Officials in Tbilisi are surely taking note. The appointment of former Estonian Prime Minister Kaja… Armenian Jerusalem Patriarchate condemns Russian Church’s honor for Azerbaijani First Lady May 07, 2025 1:40 pm By Paul Vartan Sookiasian The Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem has strongly condemned the head of the Russian Orthodox Church for honoring Azerbaijani First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva during his visit… Yerevan mayor’s lawyer says dismissive media remark was not about CivilNet May 06, 2025 11:29 pm By Gevorg Tosunyan Yerevan Mayor Tigran Avinyan’s controversial claim that “the media has become a garbage dump” was not aimed at CivilNet, but was instead a general remark about disinformation… Former major official charged with money laundering May 06, 2025 10:05 pm Armenia’s Prosecutor General’s Office submitted to court a criminal case involving alleged large-scale money laundering linked to Mikayel Minasyan, the former ambassador to the Vatican and formerly… Barriers to Employment: The Struggle of People with Disabilities in Armenia May 06, 2025 6:53 pm By Lia Avagyan By the window of her adapted workplace in Yerevan, Lusine Kerobyan reflects on her journey from Vanadzor to the capital in pursuit of employment opportunities. As one of only 27,000 employed… Central Bank Chief: Armenia Must Prepare for Potential Secondary Sanctions on Russia and Iran May 06, 2025 5:30 pm By Arshaluis Mgdesyan Armenia’s Central Bank is closely monitoring potential scenarios stemming from the ongoing war in Ukraine, including the possibility of new U.S. secondary sanctions against Russia,… Pashinyan in Tallinn: Estonia Eyes Russia’s Role in Armenia May 06, 2025 4:55 pm By Brigitta Davidjants During Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s visit to Estonia on April 27–28, Estonian media focused heavily on Armenia's relationship with Russia. Since the collapse of… Iran, Armenia aim to transform Syunik into South Caucasus economic hub May 06, 2025 3:42 pm By Alexander Pracht The head of the Iran-Armenia Cooperation Development Fund, Pouya Hosseini, presented a strategic economic initiative to Armenian Economy Minister Gevorg Papoyan on Monday. The ambitious… From Artsakh to Tavush: Displaced Families Rebuild Lives on Armenia’s Border May 06, 2025 12:11 pm By Siranush Adamyan In the shadows of Armenia's northern mountains, a new chapter unfolds for seven families who lost everything. After Azerbaijan's September 2023 offensive forced the entire Armenian… Armenian officials shield travel expenses despite European calls for transparency May 05, 2025 10:05 pm Armenian parliament speaker says no threat of Moscow-backed coup. Former president Serzh Sargsyan calls for government change, emphasizing the role of law enforcement in the process. Armenia is moving… India emerges as key defense partner in Armenia’s shift away from Russian arms May 05, 2025 4:11 pm By Eduard Arakelyan Armenia is quietly rearming—and in a way that signals a profound shift in its geopolitical orientation. Once almost entirely reliant on Russia for military supplies, Yerevan… Armenian parliament speaker says no threat of Moscow-backed coup May 05, 2025 2:38 pm By Elen Muradyan Armenian Parliament Speaker Alen Simonyan said on Monday he sees no risk of a coup in Armenia orchestrated by Moscow. Speaking to reporters in the National Assembly, Simonyan stressed… Environmental organizations challenge government guarantee for Amulsar mine in court May 05, 2025 1:46 pm By Elen Muradyan Several prominent civil society organizations filed a lawsuit Monday challenging the Armenian government's decision to provide a state guarantee for a $150 million loan that Lydian Armenia… Armenia issues new government bonds as borrowing increases: THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS May 03, 2025 7:05 pm Armenia’s economic activity index, a government indicator that corresponds roughly to economic growth, saw a 4.1% year-on-year increase in the first quarter of 2025. The operator of Armenia’s Amulsar… Armenia yet to apply for EU membership, European official says May 02, 2025 10:05 pm Armenia remains the freest country for the press in the South Caucasus and one of the best in the entire former Soviet Union, Reporters Without Borders indicated in the latest edition of its yearly World… Baku’s Vatican ‘priestitutes’ May 01, 2025 8:05 pm This week’s episode of Insights examines the Vatican’s recent hosting of a propaganda event orchestrated by the Azerbaijani regime- part of a broader effort by Baku to erase Armenian heritage in Artsakh.… The Future is Here: Visa Announces New Era of Commerce Featuring AI May 01, 2025 3:16 pm Sponsored content The future of commerce is on display at the Visa Global Product Drop with powerful AI-enabled advancements allowing consumers to find and buy with AI plus the introduction of new strategic… Support for Karabakh refugees renews after public pressure Apr 30, 2025 10:05 pm The Armenian government extended key social assistance programs for forcibly displaced families from Nagorno-Karabakh by two months, responding to demands from protesters. Amnesty International’s annual… The World Bank has a new strategy for Armenia Apr 30, 2025 8:05 pm Carolin Geginat, country manager for the World Bank in Armenia, talks to CivilNet about the newly released Country Partnership Framework, a five-year strategy aiming to reduce poverty and improve resilience… Amnesty report highlights rights concerns, domestic violence reform in Armenia Apr 30, 2025 10:33 am By Alexander Pracht Amnesty International, a major UK-based human rights NGO, published its annual global report on Tuesday, highlighting persisting restrictions on free speech and peaceful assembly in… Deeper EU ties not meant to harm relations with Russia, Pashinyan says Apr 29, 2025 10:05 pm Georgia’s President Mikheil Kavelashvili describes a new peak in relations with Armenia. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal pledge deeper cooperation… Europe’s moment for building peace in the South Caucasus Apr 29, 2025 8:05 pm Dr. Marat Terterov, co-founder of the Brussels Energy Club and the European Geopolitical Forum, discusses the current situation of the European Union’s relations with the South Caucasian countries-… Why Armenia must electrify Apr 29, 2025 7:05 pm With around 80% of its total primary energy supply dependent on imports, Armenia faces a critical challenge in securing its energy future, making efficiency and diversification central to its strategy.… Armenia trails neighbors in developing relations with China Apr 29, 2025 12:38 pm By Alexander Pracht After a nine-month vacancy, China has appointed a new ambassador to Armenia, Li Xinwei, who formally presented his credentials to the Armenian government on Monday, according to the… Pashinyan’s Estonia visit highlights digital innovation Apr 28, 2025 10:05 pm EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas announced an upcoming visit to Armenia during a meeting with Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyan in Rome, where both attended Pope Francis’s funeral. Armenian… Pollution and Flooding: Life Near the Debed River Apr 28, 2025 9:13 pm By Christopher Crowson Nearly a year after the Debed River flooded, riverside communities in the Lori and Alaverdi provinces took part in the “Debed – My River” campaign to shed light on their living… Low cost and high quality fuel Armenia’s medical tourism boom Apr 28, 2025 8:05 pm Medical tourism has developed rapidly in Armenia in recent years. Armenians and non-Armenians living abroad are increasingly traveling to the country to gain access to various types of medical services.… US signals support for nuclear partnership as Westinghouse visits Armenia: THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS Apr 26, 2025 7:05 pm U.S. Ambassador Kristina Kvien hosted executives from nuclear giant Westinghouse, as Washington seeks a major role in Yerevan’s efforts to build a new atomic power plant. Armenia’s largest mine took… Armenia commemorates victims of 1915 Genocide Apr 25, 2025 10:05 pm Armenia commemorated the 110th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide yesterday, remembering the 1.5 million Armenians killed and countless others displaced during mass atrocities committed in the Ottoman… From 1915 to Gaza: The Shape of Denial Apr 25, 2025 8:35 pm Dr. Taner Akçam, a renowned Turkish historian and the inaugural director of the Armenian Genocide Research Program of the Promise Armenian Institute at UCLA, joins CivilNet to discuss the state of genocide… Support or Control? Controversy Grows Over New Armenian Media Foundation Apr 25, 2025 4:32 pm By Lia Avagyan The Armenian government has approved the creation of a new foundation called the “Public Interest Media Environment”, sparking debate over whether the move is aimed at strengthening… Trump avoids ‘Genocide’ in April 24 statement Apr 24, 2025 11:57 pm By Paul Vartan Sookiasian In his April 24th statement, U.S. President Donald Trump once again declined to use the term "genocide" to describe the 1915 killing of more than one million Armenians in the… Rethinking Armenia and the diaspora Apr 24, 2025 8:05 pm This week marks the 110th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. In this week’s episode of Insights, host Eric Hacopian looks at the legacy of 1915: a powerful yet divided diaspora and a struggling nation-state… Armenia sends new aid package to Syria Apr 23, 2025 10:05 pm Armenia will send $125,000 in additional humanitarian aid to Syria. While the amount is modest, the move is notable given Syria's current leadership under Turkish-backed Islamist groups. Armenia has received… Erdoğan’s power grab and the myth of Turkish democracy Apr 23, 2025 7:32 pm In this interview, political scientist Cengiz Aktar unpacks how Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s arrest of Istanbul’s mayor as part of a long-term strategy to retain power challenges the… Scuffle breaks out in Armenia’s parliament Apr 22, 2025 10:05 pm A scuffle broke out in the Armenian parliament this morning between government and opposition deputies. European Union Monitoring Mission observers in Armenia recorded damage to civilian infrastructure… Yerevan hosts Ice Hockey World Championship, Division IV Apr 22, 2025 8:05 pm The 2025 International Ice hockey Federation World Championship returns to Armenia for the first time in 15 years. After being suspended from the Federation in 2010, Armenia has reclaimed its place in… EU monitors confirm Azerbaijani damage to civilian infrastructure in Armenian village Apr 22, 2025 2:06 pm By Alexander Pracht Observers from the European Union Monitoring Mission in Armenia (EUMA) recorded damage to civilian infrastructure in the Armenian border-straddling village of Khoznavar in the southern… State-Sponsored Hate: How Armenia’s Ruling Party and Pro-Government Media Target Karabakh Refugees Apr 22, 2025 11:32 am By Tigran Grigoryan and Aram TadevosyanFollowing the March 29 rally organized by displaced Artsakh Armenians in Yerevan’s Freedom Square, the Armenian authorities and their affiliated media have continued… Gas and Geopolitics: Cooperation Amid Conflict in the Eastern Mediterranean Apr 22, 2025 9:53 am By Didier Holleaux The article was published in the April 21 issue of the World Energy Weekly, a publication of Petrostrategies, a French think tank specializing in energy issues. The Eastern Mediterranean… Armenian hockey team runner-up at World Championship in Yerevan Apr 22, 2025 2:55 am By Alexander Pracht The Division IV Ice Hockey World Championship concluded on Saturday in Yerevan, where six national teams competed for promotion to the higher-tier Division III. Although Armenia fell… Armenian leaders pay tribute to the late Pope Francis Apr 21, 2025 10:05 pm Armenian leaders join the global community in mourning Pope Francis, reflecting on his legacy of peace and 2016 visit to Armenia. Azerbaijani gunfire has yet again struck a civilian home in Armenia’s… Mr. Sylvain: Teghut’s Coach from Côte d’Ivoire Apr 21, 2025 7:05 pm Due to the war in Côte d'Ivoire, football player Yao Sylvain Kouassi moved to Armenia. After he was unable to continue his career because of an injury, Silven decided to stay in Armenia and develop a… The disappearing art of Armenian handwriting Apr 21, 2025 3:59 pm By Nanor Froundjian Leafing through the pages of the infamous 18th century ‘Encyclopédie,’ part of which broaches world alphabets, Ruben Malayan recalls seeing the Armenian alphabet’s first letter,… Memory and Denial: Commemorating the Armenian Genocide in a Time of Crisis Apr 21, 2025 2:18 pm Op-ed by Vartan Oskanian, Armenia’s former foreign minister (1998-2008) This April 24 marks the 110th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide—a moment of solemn remembrance for Armenians around the world.… Armenia’s businesses step up criticism of new tax policy: THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS Apr 19, 2025 7:05 pm Armenia’s business community collected more than 2,300 signatures from entrepreneurs on a petition demanding the government repeal a policy that doubles taxes on small businesses. The changes, which… Armenian, Georgian, Azerbaijani deputy foreign ministers hold unprecedented trilateral meeting Apr 18, 2025 10:05 pm A group of displaced Artsakh residents staged a protest outside the Artsakh Representation in Yerevan, demanding the return of allegedly embezzled funds from the breakaway republic’s Investment Fund.… Armenia’s largest mine acquires 100% stake at country’s sole domestic airline Apr 18, 2025 7:25 pm By Alexander Pracht Armenia’s only domestic passenger airline, NovAir, has come under new ownership after its acquisition by the country’s largest mining company, investigative publication Hetq reported… Ambitious Academic City project raises concerns over feasibility and vision Apr 18, 2025 5:13 am By Alexander Pracht For over a century, Yerevan has been Armenia’s higher education hub, following a model common in former Soviet states. The privately owned and centrally located trade schools of… Armenia’s Constitutional Court holds up controversial asset confiscation law Apr 17, 2025 10:05 pm Gyumri’s new mayor, Vardan Ghukasyan, tells CivilNet he will work with Armenia’s central government despite deep disagreements with it. Armenia’s Constitutional Court has largely upheld a controversial… Rare meeting in Tbilisi brings together deputy foreign ministers of Armenia, Georgia, Azerbaijan Apr 17, 2025 8:15 pm By Alexander Pracht In a rare diplomatic move, the deputy foreign ministers of Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan met in Tbilisi on Thursday to outline their visions for potential areas of regional cooperation,… Aliyev’s constitutional referendum & the war on Artsakh Armenians Apr 17, 2025 7:59 pm In this episode of Insights, host Eric Hacopian dedicates the entire show to the sharp reduction in state support for Artsakh refugees and examines what appears to be a politically motivated campaign… Karabakh parliament in exile extends presidential term via constitutional amendment Apr 17, 2025 6:52 pm By Hayk Ghazaryan On April 15, the National Assembly of Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh), currently operating in exile in Yerevan, adopted a constitutional amendment aimed at preserving the office of the president.… Newly elected Gyumri mayor vows to cooperate with central government Apr 17, 2025 2:43 pm By Elen Muradyan Vardan Ghukasyan, Gyumri's newly elected mayor, has pledged to work with Armenia's central government despite his previous criticism of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. In an exclusive… Pashinyan backs dropping independence declaration reference from Constitution Apr 16, 2025 10:05 pm Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan announced that Armenia is hopeful for a positive outcome regarding the European Union Peace Facility’s proposal to allocate €20 million to the country this… Iran, Turkey, and Azerbaijan’s opposing paths on political Islam Apr 16, 2025 8:05 pm In this in-depth interview, internationally renowned expert on the Middle East, Gilles Kepel, explores the complex dynamics of political Islam. He evaluates the future of Iran’s government in the face… Armenia must adopt a balanced approach between political realities and the use of legal tools Apr 16, 2025 3:30 pm By Gurgen Petrossian The Republic of Armenia constantly faces both threats of aggression and accusations of aggression. The periodic allegations from Azerbaijan claiming that Armenia is preparing for… Armenian-Iranian drills send strategic signal amid regional volatility Apr 16, 2025 1:30 pm By Eduard Arakelyan On April 9–10, 2025, Armenia and Iran conducted what appears to be their first-ever joint military exercise along their shared 44-kilometer border. Billed as a counter-terrorism… Karabakh war report faces further delays despite promises of release “this year” Apr 16, 2025 12:39 pm By Elen Muradyan The long-awaited report on the 2020 44-day Nagorno-Karabakh war faces yet another postponement, as commission chairman Andranik Kocharyan vaguely promises it "must be released this year"… Opposition candidate elected mayor of Gyumri amid ruling party boycott Apr 16, 2025 12:36 pm By Alexander Pracht Vardan Ghukasyan, a mayoral candidate nominated by the Armenian Communist Party, was elected mayor of Gyumri on Wednesday, receiving the support of 18 out of 33 members of the newly… In rare speech, Serzh Sargsyan rebukes Pashinyan and calls for change Apr 15, 2025 10:05 pm Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has proposed that Armenia and Azerbaijan sign a peace treaty and simultaneously request the formal dissolution of the OSCE Minsk Group. Hungary has blocked an EU defense… Armenia’s ice hockey team victorious in second consecutive game Apr 15, 2025 8:05 pm Armenia’s national ice hockey team clinches a 3-2 shootout victory in a neck-and-neck game against Uzbekistan on April 14, the second day of the International Ice Hockey Federation World Championship,… Waste Not, Want Not: Armenia’s Struggle to Modernize Waste Systems Apr 15, 2025 4:35 pm By Lia Avagyan Armenia faces a growing waste management crisis as landfills rapidly fill up, forcing municipalities to confront the difficult problem of allocating new spaces. Over the past two decades,… Pashinyan proposes signing peace deal with Baku and dissolving Minsk Group at the same time Apr 15, 2025 1:47 pm By Lia Avagyan Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan proposed that Armenia and Azerbaijan simultaneously sign a peace treaty and jointly request the dissolution of the OSCE Minsk Group. In his speech… Hungary blocks EU aid proposal for Armenia Apr 15, 2025 12:42 pm By Alexander Pracht Hungary has been blocking a €10 million ($11.35 million) European Union assistance package for Armenia for six consecutive weeks, Radio Free Europe reported on Monday following a… Mirzoyan rejects linking Turkey normalization to Azerbaijan process Apr 14, 2025 10:05 pm At the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan emphasized cautious optimism in efforts to normalize ties with Turkey and finalize a treaty with Azerbaijan. Armenian rights… Armenian Foreign Minister sees broad potential for normalization with Turkey Apr 13, 2025 5:04 pm By Elen Muradyan Antalya, Turkey – On the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum held on April 11–13, CivilNet correspondent Arshaluys Mghdesyan sat down with Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan… NGOs urge Armenia to delegate Baku detainees’ protection to Switzerland Apr 13, 2025 2:48 pm By Hasmik Hovhannisyan The NGOs Path of Law and Union for the Protection of the Interests and Rights of the People of Artsakh submitted a request to Armenia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in March, asking… Armenia reports progress in talks over airport expansion: THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS Apr 12, 2025 7:05 pm A senior Armenian infrastructure official reported progress in negotiations with the foreign conglomerate that owns Yerevan’s main airport over a major expansion plan. Plans by Armenia and the Emirates’… New aid program launched for displaced Karabakh families Apr 11, 2025 10:05 pm Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev met with his Turkish counterpart Recep Erdoğan today in Antalya to discuss bilateral ties and the situation in the South Caucasus. Aliyev also received a Nowruz congratulation… Azerbaijan uses Vatican venue to rewrite Armenian history Apr 11, 2025 5:54 am By Paul Vartan Sookiasian An international conference titled “Christianity in Azerbaijan: History and Modernity,” organized by the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry, was held Thursday in Rome. The event… Armenia, Iran hold unprecedented joint military exercises Apr 10, 2025 10:05 pm Azerbaijani president Ilham Aliyev threatened Armenia with war yesterday unless it gives in to his demands. In a possible first, Armenia and Iran carried out a two-day joint military exercise along their… Will lower oil prices fuel aggression from Baku? Apr 10, 2025 8:05 pm In this episode of Insights, host Eric Hacopian explores the global energy market downturn triggered by the Trump administration tariffs and the potential impact on Armenia and the region. He also covers… Asian Development Bank warns of slowing growth in Armenia as external support wanes Apr 10, 2025 4:29 pm By Alexander Pracht Armenia’s economic growth slowed to 5.9% in 2024 and is expected to decelerate further over the next two years, as external demand weakens and the current account deficit widens,… Transparency International points to shortcomings in Armenia’s anti-corruption efforts Apr 09, 2025 10:05 pm Transparency International, a global NGO aiming to combat corruption, published a report, raising serious concerns about the effectiveness of Armenia’s Anti-Corruption Committee. Azerbaijani President… Armenia’s misaligned expectations from Russia Apr 09, 2025 8:05 pm Narek Sukiasyan is a political science lecturer at the American University of Armenia and the author of a chapter in “Broken Shield”, a new volume on the Second Karabakh War published by Newmag. In… Non-combat deaths plague Armenia’s military Apr 09, 2025 6:49 am By Alexander Pracht Last year, 40 servicemen died in the Armenian military, with only four of those deaths occurring in clashes with Azerbaijan, according to the country’s Military Prosecutor's Office.… Investigation reveals illegal construction waste dumping across Yerevan Apr 08, 2025 10:05 pm Armenia hasn’t confirmed if Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan will attend the Antalya Forum in Turkey this weekend, but he appears on the forum website. Yesterday the first hearing was held in a civil… Trial begins in CivilNet’s lawsuit against Yerevan Mayor Tigran Avinyan Apr 08, 2025 2:15 pm By Alexander Pracht The first court hearing in the case brought by the Civilitas Foundation, CivilNet’s parent organization, against Yerevan Mayor Tigran Avinyan took place on Monday at the Yerevan… Armenian Official Discourse on Karabakh: From 1988 to 2020 Apr 08, 2025 11:26 am By Lia Avagyan A book dedicated to the 2020 Karabakh War, titled “Broken Shield: A Multi-layered Analysis of the 44-Day Artsakh War”, has been released by Yerevan’s Newmag publishing house. The… EU expert mission in Armenia to assess visa liberalization progress Apr 07, 2025 10:05 pm Only about 12% of former Artsakh Defense Army personnel have joined Armenia’s military, as reintegration stalls amid poor planning, trauma, and lack of support. Armenia’s Foreign Ministry declared… April 7: Celebrating Motherhood in Armenia Apr 07, 2025 7:05 pm From flowers to feminism- April 7 in Armenia is about beauty, strength, and change. Yerevan sees improved air quality this season, mayor says Apr 07, 2025 5:40 pm By Alexander Pracht and Christopher Crowson Yerevan's air quality has seen a marked improvement this season, Mayor Tigran Avinyan announced during a city council meeting on Monday. Citing data from 173… Armenia needs biometric IDs to advance in visa talks with EU Apr 07, 2025 2:55 pm By Alexander Pracht A European Union expert mission began its second visit to Armenia today to assess the country’s progress toward visa liberalization with the bloc, according to Nelly Davtyan, head… Armenia’s MFA rebutted for blaming Karabakh leaders for Artsakh’s dissolution Apr 07, 2025 1:35 pm By Elen Muradyan Armenia's Foreign Ministry has declared on Saturday that the Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) issue has been removed from the agenda of Armenia-Azerbaijan interstate relations following the… Disbanded Defenders: Artsakh Army Servicemen Left in Limbo After Displacement Apr 07, 2025 11:30 am By Hayk Ghazaryan The integration of servicemen from the disbanded Artsakh Defense Army into Armenia's armed forces has been a challenging process ongoing since 2023. Only a small percentage of these… Armenia’s national debt passes $13B: THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS Apr 05, 2025 7:05 pm The United States imposed a 10% tariff on all imports from Armenia, as President Donald Trump escalates his global trade war. Trade between the two countries amounted to $410 million last year, representing… Baku demands Armenia provide landmine maps Apr 04, 2025 10:05 pm Martun Grigoryan, a candidate in Gyumri’s mayoral election, announced that his Our City bloc will align with former mayor Vardan Ghukasyan, the Communist Party’s candidate, to form an opposition coalition… Gyumri mayoral stalemate to end Apr 04, 2025 5:38 pm By Paul Vartan Sookiasian After nearly a week of uncertainty, the outcome of the Gyumri mayoral race is becoming clearer. On Thursday, Martun Grigoryan announced that his “Our City” alliance… Armenia to subsidize airlines launching new routes Apr 04, 2025 3:46 pm By Alexander Pracht The Armenian government plans to subsidize airlines that introduce flights from new destinations to the country’s airports, submitting a draft proposal for public discussion today.… What the U.S. Buys From Armenia: Then and Now Apr 04, 2025 9:18 am By Syuzanna Petrosyan U.S. President Donald Trump announced a large-scale package of tariff hikes that range from 10% to nearly 50%, targeting several Southeast Asian countries. The baseline 10% hike… Trump’s tariffs place Armenia’s US exports in jeopardy Apr 03, 2025 10:05 pm Armenian exports to the United States are under threat due to a new 10% tariff. France called Azerbaijan’s refusal to sign a normalization agreement until Armenia complies with further demands ‘unacceptable’. … Mozrov: A Village Without Children Apr 03, 2025 9:05 pm In the village of Mozrov in the Vayots Dzor Province, there are no children. There are also no stores, no schools, no hospitals, no paved roads, and no irrigation water. There is also a lack of hope that… Gyumri’s election circus explained Apr 03, 2025 8:05 pm In this episode of Insights, host Eric Hacopian examines Armenia’s recent parliamentary motion supporting EU membership, considering its symbolic value, political realities, and the misleading narratives… French Foreign Minister: Baku’s Demands Toward Armenia Unacceptable Apr 03, 2025 5:36 pm By Alexander Pracht Azerbaijan’s latest demands toward Armenia for finalizing a normalization agreement are unacceptable, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot said in parliament on Wednesday. "Azerbaijan… The tale of two constitutions Apr 03, 2025 3:28 pm Op-ed by Vartan Oskanian, Armenia’s former foreign minister (1998-2008) In the current phase of the Armenia-Azerbaijan talks, Baku is demanding that Yerevan adopt a new constitution that removes any… Trump’s new tariffs to impact Armenian exports Apr 03, 2025 12:46 pm By Elen Muradyan U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a sweeping new tariff policy affecting imports from countries worldwide, including Armenia. "Trump referred to the policy as part of an 'Economic… UK lawmakers urge government to press for release of Armenian prisoners in Baku Apr 03, 2025 12:32 pm By Alexander Pracht A group of British Members of Parliament has condemned the continued detention and trials of Armenian prisoners in Azerbaijan, urging the UK government to pressure Baku for their release.… Two Armenian generals charged with negligence Apr 02, 2025 10:05 pm A criminal case has been initiated against Vardan Ghukasyan, former mayor of Gyumri and the Communist Party’s candidate in the local elections, based on an alleged audio recording, Armenia’s Prosecutor… “Would These Girls Let a Man Avoid Sin?”: Rampant Hate Speech in Gyumri Elections Apr 02, 2025 5:21 pm By Zhanna Avagyan "Would these girls let a man avoid sin? Beautifully dressed, legs uncovered... they are the cause of temptation for men." This statement comes from Vardan Ghukasyan, former mayor who… Low Pay, High Expectations: The Gendered Reality of Teaching in Armenia Apr 02, 2025 9:06 am By Lia Avagyan Around the world, the teaching profession is overwhelmingly dominated by women. According to data from the Statistical Committee of Armenia, as of the 2023-2024 academic year, the country… Armenia and Germany deepen economic cooperation Apr 01, 2025 10:05 pm Germany reaffirms its support for Armenia’s EU aspirations and regional peace efforts during President Steinmeier’s visit to Yerevan. Yerevan book launch gives comprehensive analysis of 2020 Karabakh… Major aid cut for Karabakh refugees comes into effect Apr 01, 2025 3:50 pm By Alexander Pracht The Armenian government will cut financial aid for Nagorno-Karabakh refugees starting Tuesday, reducing both the amount and the number of eligible recipients. Monthly payments will… Syunik border village targeted by Azerbaijani gunfire Mar 31, 2025 9:56 pm Armenia’s second-largest city of Gyumri and the Yerevan suburb of Parakar held local elections yesterday, an important test of the ruling party’s support headed into national elections next year. … Domestic Violence Laws and Enforcement Gaps in Armenia Mar 31, 2025 8:05 pm In this episode of the CivilNet podcast, Ani Jilozian, Development Director of the Women’s Support Center NGO in Yerevan, examines the pressing issues surrounding domestic violence in Armenia. She discusses… Media Under Attack: The Spread of Hostile Political Rhetoric in Armenia Mar 31, 2025 11:24 am By Tigran Grigoryan On March 26, Armenia’s National Assembly became the stage for two troubling incidents that highlight the country’s deepening political polarization and growing concerns about democratic… Curtailed but Ambitious: Russia’s Role in the South Caucasus- Pavel Baev Mar 29, 2025 8:05 pm Pavel Baev is a political scientist and security expert specializing in Russian military affairs and Eurasian security at the Peace Research Institute Oslo (PRIO). He delivered a speech titled ‘Curtailed… Displaced Karabakh people demand right of return and continuation of social support Mar 29, 2025 7:06 pm By Zhanna Avagyan Thousands of displaced people from Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) and others rallied at Freedom Square in Yerevan on March 29, presenting a series of demands to both the Armenian government… Armenia seeks major gas deal with Turkmenistan: THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS Mar 29, 2025 7:05 pm Armenia is in talks with Turkmenistan on a multibillion-dollar natural gas deal, a senior advisor to Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has revealed. That could lessen the country’s dependence on Russia,… Starlink launches in Armenia Mar 28, 2025 10:05 pm Starlink satellite internet services, provided by the SpaceX company, are now available in Armenia, the country’s Minister of High-Tech Industry Mkhitar Hayrapetyan announced. The Armenian government… The Wider Black Sea Region: A Romanian Perspective- Gheorghe Magheru Mar 28, 2025 9:05 pm In a speech titled ‘The Wider Black Sea Region in the Context of the Global Crisis’, veteran Romanian diplomat and former Ambassador to the Council of Europe Gheorghe Magheru discusses what can be… Torture at Police Station and Zero Charges: The Case of Tigran Ulubabyan Mar 28, 2025 1:30 pm By Aram Tadevosyan #Democracy Watch - On March 17, lawyer Roman Yeritsyan posted on Facebook about Tigran Ulubabyan being tortured by officers at the Lori Regional Police Department and being subjected… Displaced families from Artsakh face mounting challenges as aid decreases Mar 28, 2025 1:28 pm By Zhanna Avagyan "If the support is cut, many people will end up on the streets," says Nanar Alaverdyan, whose five-member family now lives in Hrazdan after being forcibly displaced from Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh).… Arrests, intimidation of opposition candidates ahead of Gyumri election Mar 27, 2025 10:05 pm Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan escalates his long-standing feud with the country’s three former presidents with another live debate challenge. Opposition alliances sound the alarm in Gyumri following… Turning the tables on Baku’s information warfare Mar 27, 2025 8:34 pm In this episode of Insights, Eric Hacopian focuses on the issue of disinformation by Baku and the need for Armenians to be more critical before spreading such news. He gives recent examples of how Azerbaijan… Bridging Armenia and Georgia through stories Mar 27, 2025 7:25 pm Though neighbors, Armenians and Georgians know little about each other. A special night at the Woods Center in Yerevan, hosted by the PEN Centers of Armenia and Georgia, brought authors and artists together… Armenia in the Meat Grinder of Geopolitics: Alexander Iskandaryan Mar 27, 2025 7:05 pm In his talk titled “Armenia in the Meat Grinder of Geopolitics,” political scientist Alexander Iskandaryan discusses the recent dramatic changes to Armenia's foreign policy which have occurred due… Armenia has no rivers with an “excellent” water quality rating Mar 27, 2025 6:30 pm Here’s what the latest data shows. Armenia faces water scarcity, and climate change is making it worse Rising temperatures, reduced precipitation, and increased evaporation are shrinking rivers by affecting… Armenian parliament approves criminal prosecution against two lawmakers Mar 27, 2025 5:12 pm By Alexander Pracht Armenia’s National Assembly on Thursday approved a request from the country’s Prosecutor General to initiate criminal proceedings against independent MP Hovik Aghazaryan and "I… EU integration bill passes in Armenian parliament Mar 26, 2025 10:05 pm The Armenian parliament passed a bill in its second and final reading, declaring the country’s aspiration to join the European Union. Armenia’s Defense Ministry acknowledged that gunfire is occasionally… Support Café offers healing and community for displaced Artsakh elders Mar 26, 2025 9:08 pm By Nanor Froundjian At the Armenian General Benevolent Union Vahe Karapetian Center, more than 20 elders from Artsakh gathered–just as they have been for nearly two months–sharing memories and… Armenia’s Western Pivot: Smart Move or a Risky Gamble? Mar 26, 2025 8:05 pm Dr. Pavel Baev, a professor at the Peace Research Institute in Oslo, is in Yerevan to participate in a conference organized by the Caucasus Institute. The program is entitled “Gathering Storm: Regional… Residents of Armenia’s Azerbaijan-bordering villages feel safer with EU monitors Mar 26, 2025 5:35 pm By Gevorg Tosunyan In the border village of Kutakan in Armenia's Gegharkunik province, cattle breeder Martin's house is the closest to the Azerbaijani positions. It is only 700 meters away from the line… U.S. remains committed to strategic partnership with Armenia, Rubio confirms Mar 26, 2025 5:09 pm By Alexander Pracht Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a phone conversation to discuss the U.S.-Armenia strategic partnership and regional issues, the… Armenia was absent from the map, the map was edited, and an apology was issued: Following up on the Arte Mar 26, 2025 4:49 pm Shushan Stepanyan, #CivilNetCheck During the "28 minutes" program broadcast by the Franco-German Arte TV channel on March 24, a geopolitical map showing Turkey and the adjacent countries was displayed.… Yerevan mayor absent as protesters rally against mass tree cutting Mar 26, 2025 3:51 am By Christopher Crowson The initiative Yerevan for People organised a demonstration outside the City Hall on Tuesday to protest against the authorities’ latest tree cutting campaign in the Armenian capital.… Yerevan’s calls to Moscow hint at thawing relations Mar 25, 2025 10:05 pm Yesterday’s phone call between Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan and his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov, the second in three days, is seen by observers as the latest move by Yerevan to improve… Mastering journalism at AUA Mar 25, 2025 8:05 pm The American University of Armenia is pioneering a master’s program in multiplatform journalism this June, meant to equip aspiring journalists in the country with the skills to navigate the fast evolving… Armenia’s Local Elections: When the Government Influences the Outcomes Mar 25, 2025 3:46 pm By Tatév Ghazaryan Since the political shifts of 2018, Armenia has seen a surge in local democratic transformations. As in Yerevan, regions and communities needed to align with the new political reality… Armenia says no immediate need to end EU observer mission Mar 24, 2025 10:05 pm Bill launching process for Armenia to join European Union passes committee in its second reading, and is ready for consideration by the full parliament. Armenia is open to discuss a new mandate for… Pre-Soviet Yerevan through the lens of Gegham Tarverdyants Mar 24, 2025 1:45 pm By Alexander Pracht Although the history of Armenian photography dates back to the 1850s, it was primarily centered in Western Armenia, Georgia, and Palestine where renowned Armenian photography studios… Armenia’s parliamentary committee approves EU integration bill Mar 24, 2025 1:25 pm By Alexander Pracht Armenia’s parliamentary committee on European integration approved the bill on launching the country’s European Union membership process in a second reading during an extraordinary… Sexism, Stereotypes, and Insults: Armenia’s Ruling Party’s Troubling Rhetoric Mar 24, 2025 12:12 pm By Tigran Grigoryan In recent weeks, the rhetoric of Armenian politicians, particularly within the ruling party, has raised significant concerns about the use of offensive and politically incorrect language… Armenia issues $750M eurobond in bid to manage national debt: THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS Mar 22, 2025 7:05 pm A free trade deal between the Eurasian Economic Union and Iran will go into effect mid-May, a development observers say could significantly boost Armenia’s economy. Armenia’s Central Bank left interest… The Undoing of Armenia: Nikol Pashinyan’s Negotiation Debacle Mar 22, 2025 2:35 pm Op-ed by Vartan Oskanian, Armenia’s former foreign minister (1998-2008) By any objective measure, Nikol Pashinyan has proven to be the worst negotiator Armenia has ever had. In the six years since he… Armenia denies troop movements on the border with Azerbaijan Mar 21, 2025 10:05 pm Armenia’s Defense Ministry dismissed claims circulating on social media about a recent shooting incident on the border with Azerbaijan in the Gegharkunik region of southeastern Armenia. Former Secretary… What Turkey wants in the South Caucasus Mar 21, 2025 9:05 pm Dr. Mustafa Aydin, a professor of international relations at Kadir Has University is in Yerevan to participate in a conference organized by the Caucasus Institute entitled “Gathering Storm: Regional… Georgian university accepts, then expels student from Nagorno-Karabakh Mar 21, 2025 2:20 pm By Siranush Adamyan Anush Petrosyan, a displaced student from Nagorno-Karabakh, has been denied the opportunity to continue her education at a Georgian university due to her diploma. Anush was forced… Aid and housing gaps leave Artsakh refugees stranded Mar 20, 2025 10:05 pm Nikol Pashinyan continues to urge Azerbaijan to sign their agreed-upon normalization text as Baku ramps up baseless claims of ceasefire violations. The Armenian border checkpoint with Turkey will operate… Erdogan vs. İmamoğlu: The Battle for Turkey’s Presidency Begins Mar 20, 2025 9:21 pm By Karena Avedissian Why İmamoğlu’s Arrest Matters “The security forces have deployed hundreds of police to my house,” Istanbul mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s… 70 Days Behind Enemy Lines: Surviving War and Finding Purpose Mar 20, 2025 9:05 pm Kolya Stepanyan, a writer and a veteran made a life-changing decision to repatriate to Armenia in 2019 and serve in the military, only to find himself in an all out war and stranded behind enemy lines… Endless excuses of the Baku regime Mar 20, 2025 8:05 pm In this episode of Insights, host Eric Hacopian examines why Azerbaijan will never sign a peace agreement with Armenia and how its survival depends on continued conflict. He breaks down the latest tactics… Armenia ranks 13th in global entrepreneurship as job scarcity drives startups Mar 20, 2025 4:39 pm By Christopher Crowson Despite the country boasting a thriving entrepreneurial sector, four out of five new entrepreneurs in Armenia claim to have started their businesses due to a lack of job opportunities… Border between Armenia and Turkey briefly opened for Syria humanitarian aid Mar 20, 2025 3:38 pm By Alexander Pracht "Armenia’s long-shuttered border crossing with Turkey has been approved for reopening for ten days starting Friday to facilitate humanitarian aid delivery to Syria." "This measure… Crisis Unfolding: Armenia Must Act for Displaced Karabakh People Mar 20, 2025 3:19 pm By Aram Tadevosyan Thousands of forcibly displaced persons from Nagorno-Karabakh remain in limbo more than a year after arriving in Armenia in late September 2023. Despite international sympathy… Yerevan Air Public Talk: Towards Cleaner Air in Armenia’s Capital? Mar 20, 2025 3:38 am By Christopher Crowson Air pollution levels have exceeded the World Health Organisation’s recommended limits in Yerevan everyday this year so far. On average, just by breathing in the city’s air,… Yerevan urges Baku to sign deal, rejects Constitution change demands Mar 19, 2025 10:05 pm Armenian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ani Badalyan dismissed Azerbaijan’s latest accusations regarding ceasefire violations and alleged non-compliance with obligations. Russian Deputy Prime Minister… Switzerland Opens a Diplomatic Door—for Armenia to Walk Through Mar 19, 2025 4:17 pm Op-ed by Vartan Oskanian, Armenia’s former foreign minister (1998-2008) By adopting the motion titled "Peace Forum for Nagorno-Karabakh: Enabling the Return of Armenians"— the Swiss Council of States… Armenia denies Azerbaijan’s multiple accusations of ceasefire violations Mar 18, 2025 10:05 pm Despite agreement on the text of a normalization treaty, Azerbaijan accuses Armenia of multiple ceasefire violations, a claim rejected by the Armenian Prime Minister’s office. Switzerland will… Swiss Parliament Greenlights Peace Forum for Nagorno-Karabakh Mar 18, 2025 4:22 pm By Paul Vartan Sookiasian The Swiss government is now mandated to host a "Peace Forum for Nagorno-Karabakh" following the passage of a bill in the parliament’s upper house, the Council of States,… Trump administration tells Azerbaijan to free Armenian prisoners Mar 17, 2025 10:05 pm The U.S. has called for the quick signing of the Armenia-Azerbaijan normalization deal, while also demanding Baku free the Armenian prisoners it holds. The Trump administration’s cutting of the… The impact of U.S. aid cuts on Armenia’s civil society and media Mar 17, 2025 6:43 pm By Tigran Grigoryan As anticipated, the new Trump presidency is creating serious challenges for civil society and independent press around the world. The recent decisions by the administration to freeze… EU clears Armenian seafood imports in step toward economic boost: THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS Mar 15, 2025 7:05 pm The European Union confirmed it will allow imports of Armenian seafood products. Armenia produces some 26,000 tons of seafood every year, but fish farms’ heavy water consumption has raised concerns… Armenia eases driving license rules for dual citizens Mar 15, 2025 6:05 pm Armenia has removed a legal blind spot that forced dual nationals to pass driving exams even if they had valid foreign driving licenses. SPECIAL REPORT: What we know about Armenia-Azerbaijan normalization deal Mar 14, 2025 10:05 pm Today’s special report from Daily Armenia covers the end to normalization negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan, announced yesterday by the foreign ministries of both countries. Legal Battles and Peace Deals: What’s Next for Armenia? Mar 14, 2025 9:05 pm International lawyer Karnig Kerkonian discusses Armenia’s approach to normalization and the withdrawal of its international court cases under pressure from Azerbaijan. He warns that sacrificing legal… Is Azerbaijan signing a deal or stalling the process? Mar 14, 2025 8:17 pm In this edition of the CivilNet podcast, commentator Eric Hacopian breaks down the latest text of the Armenia and Azerbaijan normalization treaty. With Baku delaying the signing of the agreement until… Pashinyan’s Peace — A Masterclass in Capitulation Mar 14, 2025 2:23 pm Op-ed by Vartan Oskanian, Armenia’s former foreign minister (1998-2008) In what can only be described as a tragicomic nadir of modern Armenian diplomacy, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has once again… High hopes as Swiss debate on Karabakh right of return approaches Mar 14, 2025 9:14 am By Nanor Froundjian Armenians gathered in front of the Swiss Embassy in Yerevan just days ahead of the Swiss parliament’s debate on the adoption of a resolution regarding the right of Armenians… European Parliament addresses issue of Armenian prisoners in Baku Mar 13, 2025 10:05 pm Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan reiterated the need for a new constitution, stating that previous constitutional changes lacked legitimacy. The European Parliament held a plenary session yesterday to discuss… Armenia and Azerbaijan finalize peace terms, what’s next? Mar 13, 2025 8:56 pm Dr. Vahram Ter-Matevosyan, professor of history at the American University of Armenia, speaks with CivilNet about Armenia’s acceptance of the final provisions of a normalization treaty with Azerbaijan,… Ruben Vardanyan’s message from an Azerbaijani prison Mar 13, 2025 7:58 pm In this episode of Insights, host Eric Hacopian examines Ruben Vardanyan’s powerful voice message sent from prison. With excerpts from his statement, he details the gravity of Vardanyan’s words, from… Former Artsakh state minister Ruben Vardanyan ends hunger strike Mar 13, 2025 6:22 pm By Lia Avagyan Ruben Vardanyan, the former State Minister of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) held in Azerbaijani detention, has ended his 23-day hunger strike. In an audio message shared with his family and… Armenia-Azerbaijan: Peace Treaty Agreed, But Signing of the Document Remains Uncertain Mar 13, 2025 6:15 pm Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov announced today to local media that Armenia has accepted Azerbaijan's proposals regarding the peace treaty, and the text has been fully agreed upon. Armenia’s… Armenia national futsal team qualifies for Euros for the first time in history Mar 13, 2025 11:00 am Armenia’s national futsal team beat Kazakhstan yesterday and qualified for next year’s European Championship — its first major tournament in history! Swiss-funded SIGMA project introduces systemic solutions in Armenia’s agriculture sector Mar 13, 2025 10:05 am Sponsored content Only 57.2% of agricultural produce in Armenia is sold locally or exported. A key challenge for rural households is the lack of aggregation and cold storage facilities. For example, the… Netherlands signs rare strategic partnership with Armenia Mar 12, 2025 10:05 pm A coalition of American Christian leaders has sent a letter to President Donald Trump urging decisive action to free 24 hostages - mostly Armenian Christians - held by Azerbaijani authorities. Armenian… Armenia’s foreign trade faces growing decline as key re-export routes fade Mar 12, 2025 12:25 pm By Alexander Pracht Armenia’s foreign trade surged by 41.5% in 2024, surpassing $30 billion, according to the country’s National Statistical Committee (NSC), but the rapid expansion is losing momentum.… Christian leaders appeal to Trump for urgent action on Armenian hostages in Baku Mar 12, 2025 10:51 am By Paul Vartan Sookiasian A coalition of American Christian leaders has sent a letter to President Donald Trump urging decisive action to free 24 Christian hostages—23 Armenian Christians and one Azerbaijani… Armenian Foreign Minister visits India to strengthen ties Mar 11, 2025 10:06 pm Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan discusses strengthening relations in India, with interest in cooperation in IT, science, pharmaceuticals, as well as participation in the North-South International… Medieval Gospel of Shurishkan is on display in Yerevan Mar 11, 2025 6:05 pm The Gospel of Shurishkan, a medieval Armenian manuscript created in the 15th century, is now on display at the Matenadaran museum in Yerevan. The gospel survived centuries of turmoil, including being… Rally protesting ill-treatment of Armenian prisoners in Baku held in Berlin Mar 11, 2025 2:19 pm By Alexander Pracht A coalition of human rights activists has urged the European Union, France, and Germany to take immediate action against Azerbaijan over the treatment of Armenian detainees during… COAF unveils new minibus fleet to expand access to SMART Center Mar 11, 2025 7:43 am By Christopher Crowson The Children of Armenia Fund (COAF) unveiled its new fleet of minibuses last week. The initiative is meant to provide children from rural communities safer transport and access… Artsakh rights committee enters key phase of advocacy efforts Mar 10, 2025 10:05 pm Gyumri’s acting mayor will be a candidate in the municipal election on March 30; he’ll run against multiple opposition parties. The Artsakh rights protection committee, which works toward Artsakh… Chronicle of a murder foretold Mar 10, 2025 8:05 pm In this special edition of the CivilNet podcast, commentator Eric Hacopian raises the alarm on Azerbaijan’s hidden intentions behind the expulsion of the International Committee of the Red Cross, which… Visa Launches SecurePay Campaign in Armenia to Promote Financial Literacy and Safety of Digital Transactions Mar 10, 2025 4:15 pm Sponsored content Visa, the global leader in digital payments, has launched the SecurePay campaign in Armenia to raise public awareness about secure digital payments, fraud prevention, and financial literacy. … When Accountability Fails: ANIF’s Troubling Legacy Mar 10, 2025 1:54 pm By Tigran Grigryan Hetq’s recent investigation revealed that on May 4, 2023, the Armenian government invested AMD 1.5 billion (around US$3.8 million) in a newly established company, CFW CJSC, led by… “No one is safe from this kind of extremism” as Alawites massacred in Syria Mar 09, 2025 6:09 pm Basel Issmail is a resident of Armenia with roots in the coastal regions of Syria, where in recent days hundreds of his fellow Alawis have been massacred by forces with links to the new government, with… International Women’s Day in Armenia: The Numbers Mar 08, 2025 8:05 pm March 8 is International Women’s Day, and in Armenia, it’s widely celebrated by men giving women flowers, gifts, and even heartfelt speeches. But beyond the joyous celebrations, some are criticizing… Ruben Vardanyan shares emotional message from Azerbaijani jail Mar 07, 2025 10:05 pm In an emotional audio message to his family from isolation in a Baku prison, former Artsakh cabinet leader Ruben Vardanyan said he is “ready to bear the most severe punishment if only it would help… International law and Armenian prisoners in Baku Mar 07, 2025 2:05 am Dr. Gurgen Petrossian, lecturer at Friedrich-Alexander-University and chairman of the German-Armenian Lawyers’ Association, talks to CivilNet about the uncertain future of Armenia's cases at international… Armenia’s top legal representative steps down amid uncertainty over lawsuits Mar 06, 2025 10:07 pm Yeghishe Kirakosyan, Armenia’s international legal representative, is stepping down from his position in mutual agreement with the government. Armenia will appoint a defense attaché to its representation… Burying responsibility for the fall of Artsakh Mar 06, 2025 8:05 pm In this episode of Insights, host Eric Hacopian delves into the complex issues surrounding Armenia's proposed constitutional reforms, unpacking the underlying motives and potential implications. He critically… Armenia to appoint defense attaché to EU Mar 06, 2025 4:55 pm By Alexander Pracht Armenia has decided to appoint a defense attaché to its mission to the European Union, according to a government announcement made Thursday. The draft decision, presented by the Defense… Baku expels Red Cross, isolating Armenian prisoners Mar 05, 2025 10:05 pm Azerbaijan notified the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) today that it must close its delegation in the country. The European Union has announced a new proposal for non-lethal assistance… Armenia’s top legal envoy resigns as Pashinyan eyes lawsuit withdrawal Mar 05, 2025 9:02 pm By Lia Avagyan Yeghishe Kirakosyan, Armenia's Representative for International Legal Affairs, has resigned. In response to an inquiry from CivilNet, the Prime Minister's press office stated that "Yeghishe… Journalism caught between ethics and Azerbaijani influence Mar 05, 2025 8:35 pm Rasmus Canbäck is an investigative journalist for the Swedish online news site Blankspot who has just published a new book on his coverage of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. He joined us to discuss ethical… Making Armenia more energy efficient Mar 05, 2025 6:45 pm March 5th is marked worldwide as Energy Efficiency Day— but Armenia has yet to adopt energy efficiency policies that could conserve a great deal of what it produces. It faces a crossroads in energy… ICRC confirms Azerbaijan orders it to leave the country Mar 05, 2025 3:59 pm By Alexander Pracht The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has been ordered to leave Azerbaijan. In response to an inquiry from CivilNet, ICRC spokesperson said Wednesday: "We have been made… Ruben Vardanyan’s lawyer urges action from Armenian government Mar 04, 2025 10:05 pm Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan says the necessary infrastructure is in place for Azerbaijani vehicles to transit through Armenian territory and can be opened within weeks, but only on a reciprocal basis. … Cengiz Aktar on why Ankara will not make fundamental moves regarding Öcalan’s call Mar 04, 2025 7:40 pm By Karen Harutyunyan "Ankara can make some gestures of goodwill but never fundamental moves which would set the constitutional, legal, and political conditions of an equal citizenship," says Cengiz Aktar,… The Trump-Zelenskyy showdown and what it means for Armenia Mar 04, 2025 7:35 pm In this episode of the CivilNet podcast, political analyst Eric Hacopian breaks down the geopolitical shockwaves following the explosive meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President… EU proposes second non-lethal assistance measure for Armenia Mar 04, 2025 6:30 pm By Alexander Pracht The European Union has announced a new proposal for non-lethal assistance to Armenia through the European Peace Facility (EPF), a European Union spokesperson told CivilNet Tuesday.… Pashinyan: Armenia can allow Azerbaijani transit but cannot act unilaterally Mar 04, 2025 12:05 pm By Alexander Pracht Armenia is prepared to allow Azerbaijani vehicles to transit through its territory at any moment, as the necessary infrastructure is in place, however, Armenia cannot act unilaterally,… Russian border guards withdraw from Armenia-Turkey checkpoint Mar 03, 2025 10:05 pm Border security operations at the Margara checkpoint on the Armenia-Turkey border are now being carried out exclusively by the Armenian Border Guard Forces after the withdrawal of Russian guards. … Armenia approves first-of-its-kind law on cryptocurrency regulation: THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS Mar 03, 2025 8:06 pm Armenia’s banks together posted nearly $923 million in profit last year, according to the head of the Union of Banks, a sign the country’s banking sector remains one of the main beneficiaries of the… “Ruben Vardanyan needs to be healthy for us”- hunger strike in Freedom Square Mar 03, 2025 5:05 pm For 13 days now, former State Minister of Artsakh, businessman and philanthropist Ruben Vardanyan has been on hunger strike in a Baku prison. To support him and other Armenians held captive in Baku, Mane… Anora, featuring two Armenian actors, dominates Oscars with five wins Mar 03, 2025 1:51 pm Sean Baker's film Anora just dominated the Academy Awards with an incredible FIVE wins including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Editing, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Actress. The film features… Armenian border guards replace Russians at checkpoint on Turkish border Mar 03, 2025 1:14 pm By Alexander Pracht Border security operations at the Margara checkpoint on the Armenia-Turkey border are now being carried out exclusively by the Armenian Border Guard Forces, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan… Shtigen LLC issues high-yield AMD-denominated coupon bonds Mar 01, 2025 2:15 pm Sponsored content Shtigen, a leader in the solar energy sector, has become the first company in the industry to issue bonds. This initiative allows investors not only to earn high returns but also to… Controversial Armenian politician under detention in Las Vegas Feb 28, 2025 10:05 pm Controversial Armenian video blogger and politician Vardan Ghukasyan was detained in the United States by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and is currently being held at the Henderson Detention… A winter wonderland of books Feb 28, 2025 9:05 pm Book lovers in Yerevan braved a February winter storm to attend the Bookuboran Litfest, its name a play on words for the Armenian word for blizzard. Organized by the Woods Center, it was a great opportunity… How should Öcalan’s call for peace be interpreted? Feb 28, 2025 8:40 pm By Taner Akçam Abdullah Öcalan, jailed leader of the PKK, the Kurdish Workers’ Party, a militant political organization, has made a historic call, declaring that the PKK, a product of the Cold War… EXPLAINER: Armenia’s New Income Declaration System: Step-By-Step Guide Feb 28, 2025 8:25 pm By Angela Hassasian The Armenian government introduced a new Universal Income Declaration System in 2022, which is being rolled out in phases between 2023 and 2025. Under this system, Armenian citizens… Protests in Yerevan demand action for Armenian prisoners held by Azerbaijan Feb 28, 2025 7:14 pm Protests in Yerevan today demanded the immediate release of Armenian prisoners detained in Azerbaijan. While top Armenian officials had previously remained silent on the issue, saying it could result… Armenia’s extreme polarization makes constitutional changes meaningless, expert warns Feb 28, 2025 5:15 pm By Arshaluys Mghdesyan As discussions on constitutional changes gain momentum in Armenia, constitutional law specialist and American University of Armenia professor Armen Mazmanyan warns that such reforms… Targeting the Free Press: The Ruling Party’s Smear Campaign Against Azatutyun Feb 28, 2025 2:29 pm By Tigran Grigoryan The ruling Civil Contract party has launched a public smear campaign against Radio Free Europe/Radio Libety’s Armenian Service (Azatutyun). Two high-ranking government officials—Arayik… Armenia’s Foreign Ministry raises alarm over Armenian prisoners in Azerbaijan Feb 28, 2025 12:27 pm By Alexander Pracht Armenia’s Foreign Affairs Ministry issued a statement Friday, drawing the international community's attention to the plight of ethnic Armenian prisoners of war, hostages, and other… Civil society warns constitutional overhaul could deepen Armenia’s polarization Feb 27, 2025 10:05 pm Armenia and Azerbaijan continue to be deadlocked over two provisions of a draft normalization deal, with international lawsuits and border monitors still at issue. Several Armenian NGOs including the… Kocharyan’s revisionist press conference Feb 27, 2025 8:05 pm In this episode of Insights, host Eric Hacopian delves into two major developments in the region. He examines the ongoing show trials being conducted by the Azerbaijani regime against prominent Armenians,… Ruben Vardanyan forced to attend court sessions in Baku despite worsening health condition Feb 27, 2025 6:05 pm Former Artsakh cabinet leader Ruben Vardanyan’s health has sharply declined a week into his hunger strike, yet Azerbaijan is still forcing him to attend court hearings, his international lawyer Jared… AGBU, Armenian NGOs urge end to Azerbaijan’s persecution of Ruben Vardanyan Feb 27, 2025 2:39 pm By Alexander Pracht The Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) and several Armenian NGOs have signed a joint appeal calling for an end to Azerbaijan’s political persecution of Ruben Vardanyan, a philanthropist… If Armenian prisoners, including my father, are not freed, no Armenian is safe Feb 27, 2025 11:20 am If Armenian prisoners, including my father, are not freed, no Armenian is safe, says Ruben Vardanyan's son. Armenia Weighs Shorter Work Week: Will It Improve Productivity? Feb 26, 2025 11:23 pm By Lia Avagyan The Armenian government has proposed reducing the standard workday from eight hours to seven and the weekly work schedule from 40 hours to 35, all while maintaining current salary levels.… Yerevan’s arms control proposal still without reply from Baku Feb 26, 2025 9:55 pm The International Committee of the Red Cross representatives have recently visited the Armenian detainees held in Azerbaijan. Armenia has presented Azerbaijan with a written proposal to establish mutual… Ruben Vardanyan faces urgent health threats in Azerbaijan, says his lawyer Feb 26, 2025 9:13 pm Former Nagorno-Karabakh State Minister, businessman, and philanthropist Ruben Vardanyan, who remains illegally imprisoned in Baku, is facing urgent health threats, says his attorney Jared Genser. Genser… What is Azerbaijan doing to captive Vicken Euljekjian? Feb 26, 2025 7:05 pm Vicken Euljekian is a civilian from Lebanon who was captured by Azerbaijan at the end of the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war. He is enduring inhumane conditions in a Baku prison after being sentenced to 20… ICRC visits Armenian prisoners in Baku Feb 26, 2025 3:23 pm By Alexander Pracht The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) representatives have recently visited the Armenian detainees held in Azerbaijan, Zara Amatuni, Communications and Prevention Manager… Baku ignores Yerevan’s normalization proposals, says official Feb 25, 2025 10:05 pm Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan publicly addressed the ongoing trials of Armenian detainees in Baku for the first time in an international forum, speaking from the podium of the United Nations… Azerbaijan’s call for peace “with the Armenian people” should be a wake-up signal Feb 25, 2025 8:45 pm Op-ed by Vartan Oskanian, Armenia’s former foreign minister (1998-2008) Few principles in history are as clear as this: a leader who presides over his nation’s crushing defeat cannot remain in power… Yerevan chooses developer to finish Cascade complex Feb 25, 2025 5:25 pm By Alexander Pracht The Yerevan authorities have awarded the long-awaited completion of the city's iconic Cascade complex to local developer GTB, City Hall told CivilNet Monday. The winning bid includes… Armenia’s Foreign Minister calls out Azerbaijan for sham trial of Karabakh prisoners Feb 25, 2025 2:34 pm By Alexander Pracht Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan publicly addressed the ongoing trials of Armenian detainees in Baku for the first time in an international forum, speaking from the podium… Freedom of Speech on Trial: The Case of Edgar Ghazaryan Feb 25, 2025 12:02 pm By Tigran Grigoryan The Armenian government’s treatment of opposition figures continues to raise concerns about freedom of expression and political repression. The latest case involves Edgar Ghazaryan,… France reaffirms defense cooperation with Armenia, defying Azerbaijan Feb 24, 2025 10:05 pm French Ambassador Olivier Decottignies confirmed that France will continue its defense partnership with Armenia despite recent demands from Azerbaijan. Armenia’s residential real estate market may be… Tackling Armenia’s educational shortcomings Feb 24, 2025 8:05 pm In this episode, host Patrick Elliott sits down with Larisa Hovannisian, the founder of Teach For Armenia, to explore the organization's efforts to deliver quality education in the country's remote and… Armenia’s economy grows by 5.9% in 2024: THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS Feb 24, 2025 7:05 pm Armenia’s gross domestic product increased by 5.9% in 2024 — a substantial growth rate, despite falling significantly from the previous year’s 8.3% economic expansion. Plans by Armenia’s national… CivilNet fact-checking unit first Armenian member of European fact-checking network Feb 24, 2025 2:50 pm By: CivilNetCheck CivilNet’s fact-checking unit - #CivilNetCheck - has become the first Armenian member of the European Fact-Checking Standards Network (EFCSN). The network unites 50 of Europe’s… Azerbaijan’s “Scrolling Aggression” Could Blow Up Soon Feb 24, 2025 1:55 pm By David Akopyan The article was originally published on Moderndiplomacy.eu Azerbaijan’s victory in the long-disputed enclave of Nagorno-Karabakh was not the end of its conflict with Armenia and Armenians,… Russian police accused of pressuring suspect in Yerevan Feb 21, 2025 10:05 pm The Yerevan municipality faces criticism after the city’s transportation system failed to handle yesterday’s snowstorm. Civil society questions why Russian police were able to allegedly enter a… Armenian Patriarchate Fights Jerusalem Property Seizure Feb 21, 2025 6:05 pm A sudden demand by Jerusalem city officials for the Armenian Patriarchate to pay an “astronomical” amount of taxes puts added pressure on the already imperiled Armenian community. Heavy Snowfall Paralyzes Yerevan Feb 21, 2025 4:57 pm Yerevan is at a standstill as heavy snowfall cripples public transportation, leaving buses stranded and citizens pushing vehicles through snow-covered streets. Despite warnings a week in advance, the… Water in Armenia: Overuse, Waste, and Urgent Need for Solutions Feb 21, 2025 12:11 pm By Christopher Crowson Water resources in Armenia are highly vulnerable to climate change and the country is in extreme water stress due to excessive water use. “Our water availability is going… Pashinyan addresses nation, says new constitution necessary Feb 20, 2025 10:05 pm Ruben Vardanyan, the former government leader of Nagorno-Karabakh who is currently on a sham trial in Baku, declared a hunger strike to protest what he describes as a “judicial farce” being conducted… Unmasking the Kremlin-Baku tensions Feb 20, 2025 8:05 pm In this episode of Insights, host Eric Hacopian tackles a range of issues facing Armenia. He first takes on the controversial remarks made by the Armenian speaker of parliament regarding the defense of… Armenia to draft new national security doctrine Feb 20, 2025 4:18 pm By Alexander Pracht Amid Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s long-winded address to the nation on cultural values and the need for a new constitution, little attention was paid to another significant development… Pashinyan calls for new constitution amid pressure from Azerbaijan Feb 20, 2025 8:31 am By Elen Muradyan Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has called for the adoption of a new constitution, framing it as a strategic shift towards strengthening statehood and redefining national identity.… Ruben Vardanyan begins hunger strike, denounces judicial farce in Azerbaijan Feb 19, 2025 10:49 pm By Lia Avagyan Ruben Vardanyan, the former state minister of Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh), has declared a hunger strike to protest what he describes as a "judicial farce" being conducted against him in… EU border mission vows to continue work despite Azerbaijani threats Feb 19, 2025 10:05 pm The European Union border monitoring mission in Armenia says it has contributed to a significant decrease in tensions along the border, as it begins its second two-year mandate. The Armenian Patriarchate… Jerusalem authorities move to seize Armenian Patriarchate properties over taxes Feb 19, 2025 7:38 pm By Alexander Pracht and Paul Vartan Sookiasian The Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem issued an urgent communique yesterday warning that the Jerusalem municipality is attempting to seize and auction properties… Armenia’s special day for books Feb 19, 2025 6:05 pm Every February 19, Armenians celebrate the birthday of their national poet Hovhannes Tumanyan, with a Book Giving Holiday to share their love of reading. CivilNet investigation reveals new criminal cases around Zangezur Combine Feb 19, 2025 4:12 pm By Mkrtich Karapetyan A new criminal case was initiated in January at the Investigative Committee regarding violations of mineral conservation and utilization requirements by the Zangezur Copper-Molybdenum… EU mission embarks on renewed mandate as stability improves on border Feb 19, 2025 3:46 pm By Paul Vartan Sookiasian The European Union’s border monitoring Mission in Armenia (EUMA), which is now beginning its second two-year mandate, has contributed to a significant decrease in tensions… Major power grid overhaul launched in Yerevan to combat blackouts Feb 19, 2025 3:07 pm By Arshaluys Mghdesyan In response to mounting concerns over frequent power outages, the Electric Networks of Armenia (ENA) has unveiled an ambitious modernization project for Yerevan's power supply system,… Armenian national football team names head coach after 4 month vacancy Feb 18, 2025 10:05 pm The Armenian national football team has appointed Dutch manager John van 't Schip as head coach Controversy surrounds the Armenian government’s investigation of a 70-year-old professor from Nagorno-Karabakh… Adapting to the unpredictable Trump-Vance administration Feb 18, 2025 8:05 pm In this Civilnet podcast episode, host Patrick Elliott sits down with political commentator Eric Hacopian to dissect the shifts in the global political landscape during the first month of the Trump presidency.… Hybrid Threats vs. Freedom of Expression: Examining the Prosecution of Gharib Babayan Feb 18, 2025 3:13 pm By Tigran Grigoryan On February 1, the Armenian media landscape was shaken by the news that a 70-year-old professor from Nagorno-Karabakh, Gharib Babayan, who had recently posted a video on his Facebook… Baku accuses Ruben Vardanyan of planning assassination of Azerbaijani diplomats Feb 17, 2025 10:05 pm Former Armenian President Robert Kocharyan strongly advocated for the continued existence of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe’s Minsk Group during a press conference held today… Armenia names John van ‘t Schip as national football team coach Feb 17, 2025 9:35 pm By Alexander Pracht After more than four months without a permanent head coach, the Armenian national team appointed Dutch manager John van 't Schip to lead their squad, the country’s Football Federation… In Jerusalem, Secretary of State Rubio discusses presence of Christians in Israel Feb 17, 2025 9:29 pm By Stella Mehrabekyan and Paul Vartan Sookiasian During his first visit to the Middle East as U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio visited the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem yesterday, where… Search for investors in Armenia ‘dry port’ project stalls: THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS Feb 17, 2025 7:25 pm The Armenian government has still not begun construction on its ‘dry port’ logistics project in the northwestern city of Gyumri, as talks with international investors stall. Striking employees agreed… Armenia’s national football team remains coachless amid FFA turmoil Feb 14, 2025 7:18 pm By Alexander Pracht Armenia’s national football team has been without a head coach for over four months since the dismissal of Ukrainian Oleksandr Petrakov in October following a poor Union of European… Trndez: A Light in Darkness Feb 14, 2025 6:05 pm On the evening of February 13, Armenians celebrate the traditions of Trndez, a church holiday of purification with ancient pagan roots. Uncertainty and Opportunities: Amundi Analyst on Global Economic Trends Feb 14, 2025 10:17 am Sponsored content "We live in a world where uncertainty is higher than ever. However, precisely this uncertainty opens up new opportunities," began Didier Borowski, Head of Macroeconomic Research at the… Pashinyan betrays not just Armenia’s past, but also its future Feb 14, 2025 9:17 am Op-ed by Vartan Oskanian, Armenia’s former foreign minister (1998-2008) Every nation carries the weight of its history. It shapes identity, informs diplomacy, and provides a foundation for future generations.… Azerbaijan seeks environmental reparations from Armenia at The Hague Feb 13, 2025 10:05 pm Azerbaijan has filed a new arbitration claim against Armenia at The Hague alleging environmental damage in the Karabakh region. Armenia is unlikely to be able to construct a modular nuclear power plant… The consequences of the EU’s appeasement of Azerbaijan Feb 13, 2025 8:05 pm In this episode of Insights, host Eric Hacopian touches on prime minister Pashinyan's visit to the United States and his meeting with Vice President Vance. He also delves deep into the concerning implications… Pan-Armenian winter games champions who had never seen snow Feb 13, 2025 6:05 pm For the first time, the sport of snowball fighting, known as yukigassen, was held at the Pan-Armenian Winter Games. Unexpectedly, the team from Tehran, Iran had actually never seen snow before winning… Armenia is short of political will to counter corruption: Varuzhan Hoktanyan Feb 12, 2025 11:20 pm By Christopher Crowson According to a new Transparency International report, Armenia’s Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) score has not changed since 2023, remaining at 47 points. Since 2021, Armenia’s… Armenia’s parliament adopts EU integration bill Feb 12, 2025 10:05 pm Armenia’s parliament approved the first reading of a bill to initiate the country's European Union integration process. The Armenian defense minister met with his Indian counterpart to discuss expanding… Iran cannot replace Russia as Armenia’s gas supplier: former official Feb 12, 2025 5:36 pm By Lia Avagyan Iranian gas cannot be an alternative to Russian gas, according to Hakob Vardanyan, former Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure, who was responsible… ‘U.S.-Armenia security ties are growing’, says President of Global ARM Feb 12, 2025 11:29 am Timothy Jemal, President of Global ARM, a U.S. nonprofit organization with a mission to build a strong and secure Armenia, talks to CivilNet’s Stella Mehrabekyan about Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s… Pashinyan meets with Macron, Modi, JD Vance in Paris Feb 11, 2025 10:05 pm Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and French President Emmanuel Macron held a meeting in Paris yesterday, pledging to deepen cooperation on the development of artificial intelligence and regional… Investment Outlook 2025: Amundi-ACBA Asset Management’s Strategy in Armenia Feb 11, 2025 12:32 pm Sponsored content Amundi-ACBA Asset Management, Armenia's pension fund manager, has achieved remarkable growth in 2024, with assets under management increasing by 40% to reach 567 billion drams (approximately… Pashinyan dismisses Azerbaijan’s claims Armenia is preparing to attack Feb 10, 2025 10:05 pm In a new article, published by state news agency Armenpress, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan pushed against Azerbaijan’s escalating bellicose rhetoric by stating that all the prerequisites for… Zangezur mine reports $1M daily losses amid strike: THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS Feb 10, 2025 8:05 pm An unprecedented work stoppage at the Zangezur Copper-Molybdenum Combine, Armenia’s largest and most profitable enterprise, continued into the weekend. A spokesperson told CivilNet the company is incurring… Former Artsakh army commander sentenced to 5.5 years in prison for fatal negligence during 2020 war Feb 10, 2025 3:19 pm By Alexander Pracht A court in Armenia’s Syunik region sentenced Jalal Harutyunyan, the former commander of Artsakh's Defense Army, to 5 years and 6 months in prison on Friday, following a trial that… Armenia’s cooperation with West not concerning for Iran Feb 07, 2025 10:05 pm Yerevan and Tehran are working on a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement, Iran’s ambassador to Armenia, Mehdi Sobhani, revealed at a press conference. He also said Iran does not mind Armenia’s… A future for Armenia’s children with special needs Feb 07, 2025 8:05 pm CivilNet sits down with Sarah Stites, Excitement Officer of Caritas Aregak Foundation. CAF runs Emili Aregak, a social-development center for kids with special needs as well as Aregak Bakery, Armenia's…