Protest Demonstration, 1 March, Yerevan, Armenia © Onnik James Krikorian 2008
After over a month of harsh and inflammatory rhetoric directed against the Armenian Apostolic Church, and especially its head, Catholicos Karekin II, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan late last month declared a ceasefire in the escalating war of words. The truce ostensibly took effect on at the very beginning of this month and will last until the end of the week when it will be assessed.
Pashinyan’s critics, however, did not take the initiative seriously. With dozens already arrested and facing deprivation of their assets and positions, they believe the damage has already been done. Opposition media also noted that the armistice was only offered after Pashinyan had one of his posts, laced with insults and even obscenities, removed by Facebook for violating community standards.
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For those looking in from outside, recent developments have been bewildering. In reality, there has hardly been a culture of civilised political discussion in recent history. The situation, however, has certainly worsened under Pashinyan though that is not to solely single out the government here. The opposition is as much to blame, especially following Armenia’s defeat by Azerbaijan in the 2020 war.
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The EU faces a test. If it is serious about supporting democratic development in Armenia, it must also stress the need for genuine political dialogue, civil discourse, and a truly pluralistic but professional media. It must also resist the urge to pick favourites when convenient. Pashinyan called for an end to the acrimonious tit-for-tat bickering. In no uncertain terms, the EU should too.
The full piece is available here.
