Архивы: Digests

On July 14, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan met in Brussels with European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the EU–Armenia partnership, welcomed Armenia’s reform agenda, and expressed support for its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and democracy.

They noted the political agreement on the new EU–Armenia Partnership Agenda, progress on visa liberalization, and Armenia’s adoption of a law launching the EU accession process.

The EU announced around €2.5 billion in investment support, including the €270 million Resilience and Growth program. Discussions also covered security, cyber threats, and the “Crossroads of Peace” initiative. The EU pledged €1.5 million to support independent media and thanked Armenia for its efforts to prevent sanctions circumvention.

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After Brussels, Prime Minister Pashinyan visited France and met with President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace. They discussed Armenia–France relations, and Pashinyan invited Macron to visit Armenia for the sixth time—though Macron has only visited once, in 2018.

Pashinyan’s quick trip to Brussels and Paris aimed to reassure European partners that the Abu Dhabi talks and increased U.S. presence in the region are not directed against Europe. With the EU seeking more autonomy after setbacks under Trump, European leaders are pressing Pashinyan to explain why Armenia seems to favor U.S. over EU initiatives.

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Avetik Chalabyan, coordinator of the “HayaQve” National Civic Union, announced the opening of its 10th office—this time in Yerevan’s Arabkir district. According to Chalabyan, this is their largest office yet and will also serve youth and educational programs. He emphasized the union’s goal of establishing offices in all communities across Armenia to bring “HayaQve” closer to citizens and expand civic engagement. Chalabyan congratulated partners in Arabkir and Kanaker-Zeytun and wished them success in their work.

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On July 15, Armenia’s Prosecutor General filed a lawsuit against the Cadastre Committee, requesting the Administrative Court to annul the state registration of property ownership by the Government of the Republic of Artsakh for a building located at 17A N. Zaryan Street, Yerevan.

Earlier in April, it was reported that ownership of the property had been transferred to the Armenian government. This followed legislative changes allowing organizations registered in Artsakh to re-register in Armenia by the end of 2024 in order to continue operations. In September 2024, Parliament Speaker Alen Simonyan had hinted that Artsakh authorities should vacate the building.

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On July 15, by decision of the Prime Minister of Armenia, former ruling party MP A. Mekhakyan was appointed acting head of the Vagharshapat community in Armavir Province.

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On July 16, Armenia’s UN mission held a side event on “Biodiversity and Sustainable Development” during the UN forum.

Speakers from Armenia, Mongolia, the UK, Brazil, and UN leaders discussed links between biodiversity and development, followed by a Q&A.

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Ruben Vardanyan’s family and allies are pushing for his release. Lawyer Jared Genser said U.S. President Trump could help if Armenia officially asks. Armenian contacts spoke with Trump’s son-in-law, and Trump agreed to intervene if requested.

The offer was sent to PM Pashinyan via Ambassador Makunts but was rejected, fearing it might harm the Armenia–Azerbaijan peace deal. Genser warned prisoner release must happen before the deal, as it could be impossible afterward. He said Trump prioritizes this and urges Pashinyan to push for it publicly and privately.

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On July 18, Belgium’s Chamber of Representatives unanimously condemned Azerbaijan’s attacks on Nagorno-Karabakh Armenians and called for prisoner releases and respect for territorial integrity. They urged protection of cultural heritage and supported a peace deal. Belgium and the EU were urged to back investigations and impose sanctions if needed.

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Belgian MP Ellen Samyn spoke boldly in parliament about Nagorno-Karabakh, urging the EU to take real action against Azerbaijan beyond condemning its aggression. She called for ending EU energy dependence on Azerbaijan, pursuing legal accountability for ethnic cleansing, and stopping Belgian state support to Azerbaijan (about €694,000 in 2023), redirecting funds to help displaced Armenians. Samyn criticized the lack of mention of Turkey’s role and stressed that human rights must outweigh energy interests, warning that without action, the resolution is meaningless.

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A statue of world-famous chanson singer Charles Aznavour was unveiled today at Aznavour Square in Yerevan. The event was attended by Yerevan Mayor Avinyan, Minister of Education Andreasyan, and Aznavour’s son, Nikola Aznavour, founder of the Aznavour Foundation. The statue was funded by the Yerevan City Hall to symbolize Aznavour’s lasting presence in the city. Minister Andreasyan highlighted Aznavour’s unifying cultural impact, while Nikola mentioned a new Aznavour park in Paris linking Armenia and France. French Ambassador Olivier Descotigny praised Aznavour’s dual Armenian-French identity. Sculptor David Minasyan noted the statue’s casting in Gyumri and his personal connection to Aznavour.

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Avetik Chalabyan, coordinator of the “HayaQve” National Civic union, announced the opening of a new office in Armavir, continuing the movement’s expansion across Armenia.

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The 22nd Golden Apricot International Film Festival kicked off in Yerevan, showcasing award-winning films including Oscar-winner Anatomy of a Fall. The festival opened with A Simple Accident by acclaimed Iranian director Jafar Panahi, who made a surprise appearance to honor fellow filmmaker Amir Naderi. French director Abderrahmane Sissako, a Cannes and César laureate, arrived in Armenia to lead the international jury. The weeklong event will feature premieres and meetings with global film stars.

1. The “HayaQve” union has submitted a criminal complaint to Armenia’s Prosecutor General’s Office, accusing Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and several ruling party members of inciting hatred against the Armenian Apostolic Church.

Coordinator Avetik Chalabyan claimed the authorities have launched an organized campaign portraying the Church as a dangerous institution. The group says it will also appeal to other law enforcement bodies.

This follows a recent Facebook post by PM Pashinyan accusing high-ranking clergy of being un-Christian and claiming he will lead a movement to “liberate” the Church from corrupt elements.

2. Artur Sargsyan, an MP from the opposition “Hayastan” faction, has been arrested for two months by a Yerevan court. He is accused of preparing acts of terrorism and attempting to seize power, under Articles 43-308 and 43-419 of Armenia’s Criminal Code.

Sargsyan voluntarily appeared at the Investigative Committee prior to the vote in Parliament, stating he believed the arrest decision had already been made. The Armenian National Assembly previously voted to strip him of parliamentary immunity and authorized his prosecution, following a request from the Prosecutor General.

The case is linked to alleged plots by members of the “Sacred Struggle” movement. Supporters greeted Sargsyan with applause as he was transferred to prison.

3. On July 10, 2025, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev held a closed-door meeting in Abu Dhabi. While official details were scarce, the talks reportedly focused on border delimitation and the possible signing of a peace treaty. UN described the meeting as a “constructive step” and emphasized the need for continued dialogue. EU welcomed the talks and urged both sides to finalize the peace agreement without delay. Russia issued a restrained statement, warning that the peace process must not undermine regional balance—an implicit reference to its waning influence. Iran reiterated that any solution involving Zangezur must not violate its red lines, opposing Azerbaijan’s corridor demands.

4. The Armenian government’s campaign against the Electric Networks of Armenia (ENA) is intensifying, now joined by the Public Services Regulatory Commission (PSRC), which is widely seen as aligned with the government.

Recently, PSRC rejected ENA’s proposed changes to its 2024 investment plan—despite the changes aiming to increase, not reduce, investments in technical upgrades and network expansion. Critics argue the move is politically motivated, especially following businessman Samvel Karapetyan’s fallout with PM Nikol Pashinyan.

5. On July 7, Arnak Avetisyan, head of the State Property Management Committee under Armenia’s Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure, filed a lawsuit against “Yerevanyan Krkes” LLC, requesting the seizure of the Yerevan Circus building, adjacent structures, and land in favor of the Republic of Armenia.

The claim was submitted to the Yerevan Court of General Jurisdiction. The court has yet to decide on accepting the case.
“Yerevanyan Krkes” LLC was founded in March 2006. Since November 2019, 76.5% of the company has been owned by Tashir Capital CJSC, , which is managed by businessman Samvel Karapetyan, who was detained for two months in June.

6. Law enforcement searched the homes of ARF Youth members, including Taron Manukyan, son of oppositional MP Gegham Manukyan, and Gevorg Muradyan, head of the ARF Youth Central Council. Four to five people were detained. However, the opposition calls this political repression. Gegham Manukyan criticized the raids, saying authorities used airsoft gear as fake evidence. Gevorg Muradyan said nothing illegal was found and called the operation absurd. The ARF Youth Union described the crackdown as politically motivated and reminiscent of Soviet repression. Some pro-government MPs have called to ban the ARF, accusing it of threatening national security. The opposition sees this as an attack on political pluralism.

7. The US Congress recently discussed the return of Artsakh refugees. Lawmakers stressed the need for safe and voluntary resettlement. They emphasized the importance of humanitarian assistance and strong security guarantees. The discussion also included calls for international monitoring to prevent further violence. Congress urged support for peacebuilding efforts to ensure lasting stability. Protecting the rights of the Armenian population in the region was highlighted as a key priority.

8. A demonstration was organized on July 12 at Freedom Square, Yerevan on the initiative of the “Council for the Protection of the Rights of Artsakh people”. “We have important decisions to make in these difficult circumstances, so that we can protect our rights through joint efforts and legal means,” the organizers said.

The rally was authorized, but the police and the Yerevan Municipality rejected the planned march and sit-in applications. The march was planned to go to the buildings of the Government and the National Assembly.

During the rally, the Artsakh residents declared an indefinite sit-in at Freedom Square.

9. US Congressman Brad Sherman expressed concern over the recent arrests of Armenian opposition figures, including Samvel Karapetyan, and clergy of the Armenian Apostolic Church. He emphasized that US-Armenia relations are built on a shared commitment to democracy. Sherman conveyed these concerns to Armenia’s Ambassador to the US, Lilit Makunts.

10. On July 8, the sixth meeting of the Armenia-European Union Partnership Committee, established under the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA), took place in Brussels. The parties discussed the implementation process of CEPA and the expansion of Armenia-EU cooperation.

11. Several well-known international media outlets reportted, that “HayaQve” had formally appealed to Prosecutor General, calling for a criminal investigation into Prime Minister Pashinyan for insults and interference in the affairs of the Armenian Apostolic Church. The appeal was announced during a Facebook livestream by public figure Avetik Chalabyan, a coordinator of the union. Chalabyan emphasized that the Constitution of Armenia guarantees that the state shall not interfere in the affairs of the Armenian Church or any other religious organization.

12. On July 8, a violent incident erupted in the Armenian National Assembly during the debate on lifting MP Artur Sargsyan’s immunity. Clashes broke out between ruling and opposition lawmakers, leading to a recess called by Deputy Speaker Ruben Rubinyan.

Armenia’s Human Rights Defender, Anahit Manasyan, condemned the incident, emphasizing that the parliament must remain a place for democratic debate, not conflict, and stressed the need to uphold order and respect within the legislature.

Attack on the Mother See and arrest of Archbishop Mikael Ajapahyan

Following Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s recent harsh rhetoric against the Armenian Apostolic Church, on June 27, the Armenian National Security Service (NSS) and police attempted to arrest Archbishop Mikael Ajapahyan, head of the Shirak Diocese, inside the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. This operation led to a physical confrontation between clergy members and law enforcement officers. On June 28, a court ruled to detain Ajapahyan for two months, restricting his communications except with close relatives and his lawyer. Despite this, Ajapahyan declared he would not evade justice and walked from the Mother See to the Investigative Committee. However, clashes broke out along the route between protesters and security forces, reportedly instigated by government-aligned groups.

HayaQve Union condemns religious repression

The HayaQve National Civil Union issued a statement condemning the Armenian government’s recent actions against the Armenian Apostolic Church and its clergy as coordinated repression, seriously endangering religious freedoms and societal stability. They stressed that the June 27 intrusion by the NSS and police into the Mother See and the Shirak Diocese to illegally detain Archbishop Ajapahyan violated constitutional and international protections of freedom of conscience and religion. HayaQve warned such actions risk sparking civil unrest and urged international organizations and diplomatic missions in Armenia to monitor the situation and act to protect human rights and public peace.

Public demonstrations to support businessman Samvel Karapetyan

Narek Karapetyan, nephew of prominent Armenian businessman and philanthropist Samvel Karapetyan, announced a gathering scheduled for July 4 at 6:00 pm in the “Seasons” park on Mashtots Avenue, Yerevan. From there, participants will march to the location of Karapetyan’s alleged unlawful detention. He called on citizens to pause their daily affairs and unite to demonstrate that the Armenian people will not tolerate injustice, emphasizing that those who justify illegality discredit themselves. The rally seeks to amplify public voices against perceived abuses.

Concerns over EU-Armenia defence cooperation

The recent visit of the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas to Yerevan has raised concerns due to agreements signed that deepen Armenia’s cooperation with the EU in defense. The agreements foresee Armenia’s participation in EU military and peacekeeping missions worldwide. This development risks placing Armenia at odds with its primary strategic ally, Russia. Armenian authorities announced a new agenda with the EU including security and defense cooperation, which experts warn could destabilize the regional geopolitical balance and complicate Armenia’s traditionally multi-vector foreign policy.
Concurrently, discussions about Armenia’s potential EU membership have begun, despite the country’s deep integration in the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). HayaQve board member Armen Manvelyan cautioned that the EU is not a defense alliance and cannot guarantee Armenia’s security. He further warned that leaving the EAEU and integrating with the EU could pose serious economic and stability challenges. Experts highlight that deeper EU defense ties could damage Armenia-Russia strategic relations at a time when regional security remains fragile.

Political and economic criris over nationalisation of Armenian Electric Networks (AEN)

Recent events reveal a serious political and economic crisis surrounding the state takeover of Armenian Electric Networks (AEN). The process, unfolding amid public confrontations, appears motivated by retaliation against businessman Samvel Karapetyan due to his defense of the Armenian Apostolic Church. AEN, one of Armenia’s largest infrastructure enterprises, has been controlled by Karapetyan’s Tashir Group since 2015 and has made substantial investments modernizing the grid. The nationalization jeopardizes the company’s future development and harms Armenia’s investment climate.

Karapetyan’s family has initiated an international investment dispute based on the Armenia-Cyprus Investment Protection Agreement. The case could lead to arbitration and claims for hundreds of millions of dollars in compensation. This scenario creates uncertainty for current and future investors, damages Armenia’s rule-of-law image, and risks triggering an economic downturn, capital flight, and reduced investment.

Divine Liturgy Prayers for Prisoners and Peace

On June 30, after evening prayers, His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians, officiated a Divine Liturgy at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, praying for the freedom of prisoners, comfort for the suffering, and peace for the homeland. The liturgy was led by Archbishop Vrtanes Abrahamyan, leader of the Artsakh Diocese, and attended by clergy, Artsakh officials, families of Armenian hostages illegally detained in Azerbaijan, and numerous pilgrims. The sermon addressed contemporary hardships and the plight of detained Armenian compatriots.

HayaQve’s ongoing meetings in Europe

HayaQve representatives, including coordinator Avetik Chalabyan and external affairs committee members Atom Mkhitaryan and Anna Kostanyan, held informal discussions in NL, BE and FR. In their interviews this week, they reflected on the political meetings they held in the three aforementioned countries and presented the agreements reached.

Armenian president‘s speech at UN Financing for Development Conference

During the UN Global Financing for Development Conference in Spain, Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyan delivered a speech emphasizing the urgent need to reform the international financial system to better assist developing and vulnerable countries. He highlighted Armenia’s challenges, including the influx of 115,000 refugees from Nagorno-Karabakh, climate disasters, and limited financial resources. Khachaturyan called for fair financial support and invited international partners to collaborate on sustainable development and digital inclusion. He welcomed the conference’s final document as a potential catalyst for timely and effective aid to vulnerable countries.

Phone call between Armenian PM and French President Macron

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan held a telephone conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron, discussing bilateral, regional, and international issues. Pashinyan expressed gratitude for Macron’s personal contributions to strengthening Armenia-France relations. The leaders agreed to intensify cooperation across multiple areas. Macron reaffirmed France’s support for Armenia’s reform agenda and its peace strategy.

Ombudsman’s office summary of Police rapid response visits

The Human Rights Defender’s Office summarized findings from recent rapid response visits to police stations. The review revealed that several detainees were arrested on direct suspicion of obstructing justice. Among the detainees were minors. During confidential interviews, detainees raised various concerns, some of which were addressed after discussions between Ombudsman representatives and police officers.

Armenia’s 30th Constitution Anniversary amid crisis

As Armenia marks 30 years since its Constitution, the country faces a grave situation—from the ethnic cleansing of Artsakh to arrests of religious leaders and influential businessmen, alongside public confusion and the loss of key allies. HayaQve board members argue that constitutional reform should not be dictated by foreign powers or amid internal hostility. Instead, Armenians must unite, assess the current state carefully, and only then consider amendments. A new constitution should enhance institutional resilience, prevent power concentration in one person, and establish new rules for societal coexistence. Such reforms are only possible after changes in the internal climate.

Prosecutor General’s request to initiate criminal proceedings against oppositional MP’s

On July 4, Prosecutor General Anna Vardapetyan submitted a request to the National Assembly seeking approval to initiate criminal prosecution against MPs Seyran Ohanyan, Artsvik Minasyan and Artur Sargsyan. They are suspected of being involved in some illegal activities, as well as for the violent overthrow of the government in Armenia.