Introduction

Armenia, a landlocked country nestled between Georgia, Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Iran, has become a popular tourist destination in recent years. It offers a unique blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant culture. But is it safe to travel to Armenia? This comprehensive guide will discuss the factors contributing to Armenia’s safety and provide tips for a secure and enjoyable trip.

Safety in Armenia

Overall, Armenia is considered a safe country for travelers. According to the Global Peace Index (GPI), Armenia ranks relatively high in terms of safety and security. The low crime rate, friendly locals, and well-maintained infrastructure contribute to its secure atmosphere. Here are some factors to consider when assessing the safety of Armenia:

1. Low Crime Rate: Armenia boasts a low crime rate, with theft and petty crimes being the most common issues. Violent crimes against tourists are rare, making the country an ideal destination for solo travelers, families, and groups alike.

2. Political Stability: Armenia’s political situation has stabilized over the past few years, with no significant conflict affecting the safety of tourists. While some tensions still exist with neighboring countries, these issues are generally confined to the borders and should not impact visitors.

3. Friendly Locals: Armenians are known for their warmth and hospitality. Locals are generally eager to help tourists, making it easy for travelers to feel safe and welcome during their stay.

4. Well-maintained Infrastructure: Armenia’s infrastructure, including roads, public transportation, and tourist sites, is well-maintained and reliable. This contributes to the overall safety of the country and ensures a smooth trip for visitors.

Precautions for a Safe Trip: While Armenia is generally safe, it’s essential to take some precautions to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience:

1. Be aware of your surroundings: Always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas where pickpocketing may occur. Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying expensive items.

2. Travel insurance: Invest in comprehensive travel insurance to cover any unexpected incidents, such as medical emergencies, theft, or cancellations.

3. Respect local customs and traditions: Familiarize yourself with Armenian customs and traditions, and show respect by adhering to the local norms. This will help you avoid inadvertently offending the locals and ensure a positive experience.

4. Border areas: Avoid traveling to border areas with Azerbaijan and Turkey, as these regions can be tense and may pose a risk to your safety.

Conclusion

Armenia is a captivating destination with a rich history, beautiful landscapes, and a warm, welcoming culture. Its overall safety makes it an ideal choice for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience. By taking basic precautions and staying informed about local customs, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to this enchanting country.

Article Is it safe in Armenia? is the first on iArmenia: Armenian History, Holidays, Sights, Events.

On April 17, the National Assembly elections of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia started. Serzh Sargsyan became the prime minister. 77 National Assembly deputies voted for, 15 voted against.

At about 12:10, during the rally in the French Square, Nikol Pashinyan announced that he is now starting a velvet revolution and they must block public institutions. During the rally, the crowd of protesters stretched from the French Square to Amiryan Street.

Some related links:

• Protests Against Serzh Sargsyan.
• Read the brief article Armenian “Velvet” Revolution.
• Read the detailed article Velvet Revolution of Armenia.
• Pashinyan – Karapetyan Meeting (did not take place)

After the resignation of Serzh Sargsyan, which took place on April 23, Nikol Pashinyan made a speech at the Republic Square of Armenia.

Earlier, Nikol Pashinyan stated during a press conference:

I will become the prime minister, if the nation puts that responsibility on me.

Also, as another reminder, acccording to Pashinyan the following is the second step after Serzh Sargsyan resigned:

“The National Assembly must elect a candidate for the prime minister chosen by the nation and this should take place within the next week. After which there will be a temporary government. Then, snap parliamentary elections should take place as soon as possible.”

So far, the Armenian nation’s only candidate for the post of the Prime Minister is no other than Nikol Pashinyan. However, during May 1 elections, which took about 10 hours, he didn’t get enough votes. So, the civil disobedience continued.

See: What happened after May 1?

With enough deputies ready to nominate Nikol Pashinyan for the PM post, the second elections took place. This time again, he was the only candidate.

Before talking about the elections which took place on May 8, let’s go back for several days.

Important Events Prior To May 8 Elections

Will Eduard Sharmazanov vote for Pashinyan during the upcoming elections?

During an interview with Azatutyun, he answered this question as follows:

There is a faction announcement, which states that they will support the candidate nominated by one third of the parliament of the Republic of Armenia. Support means they will ensure that the PM candidate has 53 votes or more so that he becomes the prime minister. Does this mean that everyone should vote in the united party?

I do not think so… I think the essential part  is that we do not go to the deepening and confrontation of the political crisis. On May 8, the Republican faction, maybe even with his political views, vision, and also by not seeing Pashinyan as prime minister and supreme commander-in-chief, will not become an obstacle. Moreover, it will also support with its votes. We have 45 votes to ensure that we have the PM.

Pashinyan has also stated:

I can assure that there will not be any oligarch in the government.

Serzh Tankian‘s speech:

For many years, the world has known us by genocide, by the earthquake and war. But now with this movement you have raised the rating of our entire Armenian nation. Like you, I dreamed of this day for years, and I am fully proud of standing beside you.

May 8 Elections: The New Prime Minister

During the special session of the National Assembly 42 deputies voted against and 59 deputies voted for Pashinyan. Later, Armenian President Armen Sargsyan signed a decree on appointing Nikol Pashinyan as Prime Minister.

Consequently, Pashinyan officially became the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia.

In response to Azatutyun Radiostation’s question whether he was ready to include in the government the opposition Republican Party members, Pashinyan replied:

We will do discussions … If we say solidarity, it can not be just a slogan, but be something else in practice. We, of course, will work in that direction.

He did not name any specific candidates.

There are many candidates because there are many politicians and professionals in Armenia who must be involved in the governance of the country.

He said there would be changes in the government, including the Minister of Defense.

The first important step, of course, is the launch of reforms in the electoral system. We will definitely take measures in that direction. But the first thing I am going to do today is to hear the report of the Armed Forces and representatives of the National Security Authorities on the security environment of our country.

To the question, which power will be reduced, the newly-elected prime minister responded: – “I have already said that there should not be a supreme prime minister system.

This is how the nation responded to the long waited moment:

What reforms will take place in the country?

Referring to foreign political priorities, Pashinyan announced that after the election of the prime minister, the pivot of Armenia’s foreign policy will be the collective interest of the nation. Accordingly, relations will develop with Georgia and Iran, Russia and the European Union, the United States, China and India.

Armenia will enter into an agreement with the European Union and will continue to be a member of the YAP and CSTO. “We consider military cooperation with Russia as an important factor of Armenia’s security system. One of our priorities is the deepening of relations with European countries and the European Union. ”

He stated that in the conditions of equality before the law, there must also be an economic revolution. He called on Diaspora businessmen to come and make investments in Armenia.

Also, he called on Armenian businessmen to work by law, properly paying taxes. – “Be sure that the money you pay to the country will not be robbed but will serve to the interests of our nation and state.”

According to him, the introduction of a model of economic development will truly change people’s lives. It will dramatically increase the growth of the budget, which will enable the increase of salaries and pensions.

Nikol Pashinyan will assign three priorities for economic development. The spheres of information technologies, agriculture and tourism should be developed at revolutionary rates. New goverment will revise the farmers’ heavy loan obligations. The logic of fining citizens in different fields should change. – “The Republic of Armenia must become a state that cooperates with its citizen, rather than pursuing them, and being a punitive state.

More reforms:

Reforms will take place “without vendettas” – “All people are equal before the law, there will be no privileges in Armenia. The election results will no longer be rigged. There will be no election bribes. No artificial economic monopolies, everyone will be able to deal with his preferred business. Human rights will be protected.

The government will not be a means of earning money, there will no longer be corruption in the country and that’s it. There will be a supremacy of laws and rights. Let no one ever doubt that our government will make crucial changes in this period.

At the same time, I should emphasize again that we will solve these problems without vendettas. With no redistribution of property, strictly adhering to the law, the rights and interests of all citizens. The page of political and economic repression no longer exists. The law will be equal and shall act in the same way both with the political allies and friends, and with political opponents and critics. This is the main and most important message of the Armenian Revolution, which we must adhere to and endure.”

Education should be non-partisan. There should be erious reforms should in health care, social security. We must end the practice of leaving the social burden of our soldiers on their parents. It is also unacceptable that the information about the death of a soldier in by the enemy or in a peaceful manner becomes common in the newsletters. – “Every citizen of Armenia should be convinced that the Republic of Armenia is doing its best and the impossible to save every soldier’s life, health and security”.

He also added. “We put all our hopes on the professionals in the public administration system who have come to their positions thanks to their talent and diligence.”

And this is not all!

Pashinyan says the most important of all changes is the reform of the electoral system in order to hold free, fair and transparent elections. “This is a priority for us, because we remain sure that Armenia’s processes started moving in the wrong direction, whenever the country began to use the practice of election results faking, hindering voters’ free expression of will.

We need to provide a moral, legal and technical environment to avoid any such manipulation in the future.”

There should no longer be prisoners for political reasons in Armenia. “I want to assure you that the history of the Third Republic, many issues of the past will definitely have their answers in the near future. But all this that will take place will not be moved by hatred, hostility, harassment, but by the public dialogues, the search for truth, reconciliation and national unity in the atmosphere.

The government will also make efforts to ensure that the prisoners that are in jail for their political activities are released as early as possible. And we will eventually be released from the shameful stigma of a political prisoner. ”

“Hatred and its preaching no longer have a place in the new Armenia. There is no doubt that a new and glorious page has been opened for the history of Armenia. There will be no going back to the past. Our country has no place for despair and impasse. Our country is standing firm on its feet, with its open front and firm backbone, “Nikol Pashinyan concluded his speech at the National Assembly.

PRESIDENT ARMEN SARGSYAN’S SPEECH

We should be proud of today’s Armenia. We have been able to do something that no other country or state has been able to do in the last few decades. That is, to do a revolution, call it velvet, or some color, for me it is an Armenian revolution or a revolution in the Armenian way, where people revolutionize without a conflict, with flowers, smiles, joy and balloons.

Nikol Pashinyan is a talented person. I have a lot of practical and respectful relationships with him. I have and will have my contribution to make the government succeed, otherwise the movement is meaningless. Otherwise, all the hopes that the people have for the future will be meaningless. So, I hope tomorrow will be better and the government will justify itself.

The first sitting of the Government with Nikol Pashinyan as the Prime Minister

Ladies and gentlemen, I would like to thank you all. The government has gathered for the last time in such a composition. I wish you all success. I wish good luck to the newly forming government.

At the end of the day, it became known that Nikol Pashinyan appointed his party members in a number of positions: Ararat Mirzoyan First Deputy Prime Minister, Tigran Avinyan Deputy Prime Minister. Ex-Minister of Emergency Situations Davit Tonoyan Defense, Arayik Harutyunyan – Education and Science, Mkhitar Hayrapetyan Diaspora, Suren Papikyan Minister of Territorial Administration and Development.

The newly appointed Chief of Police Valeri Osipyan announced after the government session that he agreed to take the position to show that the police are really standing next to the people. Osipian is ready to take the responsibility for his colleagues.

Minister of Transport Vahan Martirosyan said he did not want the post. Meanwhile, Minister of Health Levon Altunyan is waiting for the offer.

Mayor Taron Margaryan arrived at the cabinet meeting. In addition, people have been demanding his resignation as well. The mayor however did not intend to follow the example of his party leader Serzh Sargsyan.

Article May 8 Elections: The New Prime Minister is the first on iArmenia: Armenian History, Holidays, Sights, Events.

On April 17, the National Assembly elections of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia started. Serzh Sargsyan became the prime minister. 77 National+

Assembly deputies voted for, 15 voted against.

At about 12:10, during the rally in the French Square, Nikol Pashinyan announced that he is now starting a velvet revolution and they must block public institutions. During the rally, the crowd of protesters stretched from the French Square to Amiryan Street.

Some related links:

• Protests Against Serzh Sargsyan.
• Read the brief article Armenian “Velvet” Revolution.
• Read the detailed article Velvet Revolution of Armenia.
• Pashinyan – Karapetyan Meeting (did not take place)

After the resignation of Serzh Sargsyan, which took place on April 23, Nikol Pashinyan made a speech at the Republic Square of Armenia.

Earlier, Nikol Pashinyan stated during a press conference:

I will become the prime minister, if the nation puts that responsibility on me.

Also, as another reminder, acccording to Pashinyan the following is the second step after Serzh Sargsyan resigned:

“The National Assembly must elect a candidate for the prime minister chosen by the nation and this should take place within the next week. After which there will be a temporary government. Then, snap parliamentary elections should take place as soon as possible.”

So far, the Armenian nation’s only candidate for the post of the Prime Minister is no other than Nikol Pashinyan. However, during May 1 elections, which took about 10 hours, he didn’t get enough votes. So…

What Happened After May 1?

After the vote, Pashinyan, in the crowded rally in Yerevan’s Republic Square, c

alled on the civil disobedience actions to resume. Demonstrators started to close Mashtots-Tumanyan and Mashtots-Amiryan intersections and even the road taking to the airport.

The evening of May 1, 2018 (Republic Square)

During an interview with Azatutyun Radio station, he answered several important questions.

Interviewer:

Mr. Pashinyan, do you think after seven days there’ll be Prime Minister’s new election? Or do you think that it can be resolved sooner?

Pashinyan:

There should be new de jure election for the post of the prime minister. Otherwise, if the election does not take place, extraordinary parliamentary elections will take place. You know, we analyze the scenarios and, in all scenarios, no one can defeat the pan-national movement. You see what’s going on, and the people who have felt the breath of victory can not let go of that victory.

Interviewer:

If the Republican Party holds the snap elections, are you ready for this scenario?

Pashinyan:

Yes, we are ready for all scenarios, and in each scenario we have a plan of action.

Interviewer:

Mr. Pashinyan, have you found the answer to the question as to what is the principal obstacle that they do not want to cede the power?

Pashinyan:

You know, they just use the opportunity. Because they only understand the power of brutal force, they do not understand anything else or they find it hard to understand. They think that if love and tolerance make up the revolution, then they can benefit from this love and tolerance, to save their seats for four more days.

The second issue is, I’m sure that their behavior is provocative. They want to annoy people, but that will not happen. Yesterday, they were constantly talking about aggravations, clashes. What clash? 95% of the people are supporters of the movement, who will clash with whom? Now they say that someone sent a provocative group, provokes clashes. That is no way to happen, no one can provoke, the whole situation is 100% under our control.

Nevertheless, two members of the Republican Party did not obey the decision of the faction to vote against Pashinyan. Grigor Avalyan did this indirectly, did not attend the session, and announced that he was leaving the mandate. Former deputy head of the National Security Service, former governor of Shirak, General Felix Tsolakyan voted for me. According to him, he did it as dictated his conscience.

Pashinyan also made a speech at the Republic Square.

Here it is:

It is already fixed that this is another Armenia and only 50 chairs in Baghramyan 19 remain in Armenia. The rest of Armenia is under the full control of the citizens of the Republic of Armenia.

The behavior of the Republican faction was exclusively provocative, they constantly wanted to make the people and their candidate nervous. To make them lose control, take provocative steps, to organize attacks. But we, dear people, are not engaged in marauding. That political corpse, which is called The Republican Party and faction, do not deserve our attention at all. And if it comes to negotations, I officially state that they can only refer to the political funeral of the Republican Party.

I want to clearly estimate what happened. The Republican faction’s voting has and will have the same effect as our kidnapping from Artsakh street and Erebuni street. I want to record that we have no option of doing a step back even half a millimeter.

The President’s Statement On The Latest Events

Yesterday, the National Assembly failed to elect the prime minister. I am really sorry that the political crisis is continuing despite the fact that everyone announces its danger for the future of the country.

Our attention is focused on the actions of the political forces involved. I urge you to continue the concils in the coming weeks to find a way out of the crisis that will serve our common national interests.

In addition, according to point 3 of Article 149 of the Constitution,”In case of a Prime Minister not being elected, seven days after the voting, a new Prime Minister’s election should take place. In which, at least one third of the total number of Deputies should nominate the candidates of the Prime Minister. If the Prime Minister is not elected by a majority of the total number of Deputies, the National Assembly shall be released by law.

Hence, the issue of the election of the prime minister will be discussed at the special sitting of the National Assembly on May 8 at 12:00 pm by law. Parliament Speaker Ara Babloyan stated this.

Pashinyan’s Speech at the Republic Square

The rally of Nikol Pashinyan on May 2 was in a festive atmosphere. He stated during the rally:

I had a meeting with Prosperous Armenia Party leader Gagik Tsarukyan. Then, we had a talk with head of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation-Dashnaktsutyun faction Armen Rustamyan. And you know that we all represent “Exit(Elq)” faction.

So tomorrow, with your permission, one third of the deputies of the National Assembly will formally nominate me as a candidate for the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia. In other words,” Tsarukyan “,” Dashnaktsutyun “and” Exit “factions will give their signature for my candidacy for the prime minister. Do you agree with that option?

The oppositionist asked this to the crowd which greeted him with enthusiastic exclamations.

Pashinyan also informed that a meeting of the Republican faction took place. As a result of it, the Republican Party of Armenia (RPA) stated that they will support the “candidate of the people” in the upcoming elections.

That is, if we take into account today’s political statements, the task of electing the candidate of the people in the second round of the Prime Minister’s elections is practically solved.

The oppositionist also added that so far all these are “verbal statements”. And, it is necessary to conduct concrete actions tomorrow, prepare documents.

In this regard, we offer the following scenario: tomorrow we are not carrying out any rallies in Yerevan or in the marzes of Armenia, and you are resting. We are working in the National Assembly and we are trying to make sure that these statements, which I have mentioned, particularly regarding the RPA, are guaranteed.

Pashinyan called on not to lose alertness in all cases, and to follow his Facebook page.

Because just theoretically, the events can develop in such a way, that there might be the need to hold rallies any time of the day.

Nikol Pashinyan also called on everyone to gather again on May 8 on the day of the Prime Minister’s election.

Our source: Azatutyun.am

Article What Happened After May 1? is the first on iArmenia: Armenian History, Holidays, Sights, Events.

On April 17, the National Assembly elections of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia started. Serzh Sargsyan became the prime minister. 77 National Assembly deputies voted for, 15 voted against.

At about 12:10, during the rally in the French Square, Nikol Pashinyan announced that he is now starting a velvet revolution and they must block public institutions. During the rally, the crowd of protesters stretched from the French Square to Amiryan Street.

Some related links:

• Protests Against Serzh Sargsyan.
• Read the brief article Armenian “Velvet” Revolution.
• Read the detailed article Velvet Revolution of Armenia.
• Pashinyan – Karapetyan Meeting (did not take place)

After the resignation of Serzh Sargsyan, which took place on April 23, Nikol Pashinyan made a speech at the Republic Square of Armenia.

Earlier, Nikol Pashinyan stated during a press conference:

I will become the prime minister, if the nation puts that responsibility on me.

Also, as another reminder, acccording to Pashinyan the following is the second step after Serzh Sargsyan resigned:

“The National Assembly must elect a candidate for the prime minister chosen by the nation and this should take place within the next week. After which a temporary government will be formed. Then snap parliamentary elections should be held as soon as possible.”

So far, the Armenian nation’s only candidate for the post of the Prime Minister is no other than Nikol Pashinyan.

Armenian Revolutionary Federation Party stated:

The federation has no final decision. But we think that in the context of our yesterday’s statement, we will defend Nikol Pashinyan’s nomination.

On the day before, they issued a statement suggesting to form a unified political agenda. with the participation of all parliamentary factions ahead of the special session of the parliament scheduled for May 1. And come to an agreement on a common candidate which enjoys the trust of the people who should “provide the relevant staff and program of activities of the Government on the basis of conciliation”.

Prosperous Armenia’s Leader Tsarukyan stated:

If the victory belongs to the people, nobody has the moral right to take that victory. It is the people’s victory, hence, the people must decide and offer the candidate. With my whole team, I will give my voice to the people’s candidate.

Republican Party stated:

If three political forces of the National Assembly have a single candidate, we will not be an obstacle to the people’s candidate. We will not be an obstacle.

The leader of the “My Step” initiative, Nikol Pashinyan, announced at the rally at Republic Square that he is ready to assume the post of Prime Minister.

Nikol Pashinyan

Now I want to clearly answer this pending question of the Republic of Armenia. I want to look straight in the eyes of all of you, with all the confidence to declare this. Yes, I am ready to take the post of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia with responsibility, because I serve to the people of Armenia.

In adition, thousands of supporters in the square warmly recieved his statement.

His speech on the next day is as follows:

It is absolutely not essential who will be the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia. Because what’s essential is that there is a ruler of the country, the people who have taken the power of the country in their own hands.

He also noted that the only candidate nominated for the Prime Minister’s post on May 1 parliamentary elections was himself. Also, that he had received the support from the three “Exit(Elq)”, “Tsarukyan” and ARF factions. In addition, the majority of the Republican Party stated that they would not be and obstacle.

The square welcomed his statement with “Nikol, Nikol” exclamations. Interrupting them, Pashinyan continued:

So far many people seemed to think this would be the most important event in the recent political process. In reality, however, it is now possible to state that the most important event took place before that. The most important event took place a few days ago. And it was obvious to all of us, that in the Republic of Armenia there is a nation who stands up and took everything in their own hands.

I want to say that it is absolutely not important who will be the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia. The most important thing is that there are people in the country who very clearly, with all the details know what to do if suddenly any government in the country acts impudently, loses itself, loses its passion for experience and underestimates its people.

On May 1,  Nikol Pashinyan, through Facebook broadcast, stated that the ruling Republican Party is trying to overthrow the May 1 Prime Minister’s elections, where the only candidate nominated is Pashinyan.

“We have just been informed that during a night-time meeting, the Republicans have decided to overthrow the Prime Minister’s elections,” he said.

“I urge you all to come early in the morning and gather in the Republic Square to counteract the new plan of Serzh Sargsyan and the Republican Party,” says the opposition leader. Also noting that there will be an attempt to restore the ruling Republican Party.

MAY 1 ELECTIONS

Nikol Pashinyan stated in his speech at the National Assembly:

It seemed that the Republican Party would soberly evaluate the situation and would be guided by the interests of the people and the state. And that it would contribute to the de jure record of this pan-national awakening. However, the leadership, headed by Serzh Sargsyan, continues playing the “mouse and the cat” with his own people.

They did not announce that they will vote for the people’s candidate, although they realize that this is the only way to overcome the crisis and put Armenia on the path of sustainable development.

Understanding the sensitivity of the situation, based on our ideology of love and tolerance, national unity and solidarity, we have created all the opportunities for dignified removal of Serzh Sargsyan and RP elite. But these people, who have kept their own people in chains for many years, are probably inclined to perceive this behavior as a weakness.

…

From the tribune of the National Assembly, I appeal to the people of the Republic of Armenia, every citizen. Dear compatriots, they want to steal your victory again, do not stay at home and at right now, go to the street and head towards the Republic Square, flood the streets and squares of other cities.

In his final speech, Pashinyan called on the deputies of the Republican Party that form the majority of the National Assembly to “vote for the benefit of the people.”

“I was blamed for the fact that I threatened to destroy the Republican Party. I officially state that I have no such intention. Because the Republican Party of Armenia in its present debate has destroyed itself irreversibly, “Nikol Pashinyan announced. Adding that “The power that declares war on its own people can not exist.”

The oppositionist also stated that all those who. “try to hint that there are some dark, alien forces in this movement, insult their own nation.”

“This shows that this faction has nothing to do with the Armenian people. They speak about explosive situation, yet there is no explosive situation. Today there is no correlation between forces in Armenia, there are people in Armenia today. On the other side, there are 20-25 deputies from Republican party and their elite. They want to prove that there is an explosive situation.

There will be no clash. I have said many times that in case of danger threatening the Republic of Armenia and the Artsakh Republic, this entire nationwide movement will dedicate themselves to the defense of Armenia and Artsakh.

MAY 1 ELECTION RESULTS

Nikol Pashinyan, however, did not receive enough votes. 45 voted for, and 56 voted against him.

In addition, only one deputy from the ruling Republican Party voted for Nikol Pashinyan, former governor of Shirak, Felix Tsolakyan.

After the voting, Azatutyun Rdio station asked Tsolakyan what was the reason for his decision. “Conscience and peace,” the deputy replied.

The “Tsarukyan” faction together wit the ARF party had earlier stated that they would support Pashinyan. Exit, Tsarukyan and ARF factions have a total of 47 votes in the parliament with 105 deputies. (ARF member Aghvan Vardanyan announced that he would not vote). At least 53 voices are needed for Pashinyan to be elected. The RPA has 58 mandates.

Article May 1 Elections is the first on iArmenia: Armenian History, Holidays, Sights, Events.

On April 17, the National Assembly elections of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia started. Serzh Sargsyan became the prime minister. 77 National Assembly deputies voted for, 15 voted against.

At about 12:10, during the rally in the French Square, Nikol Pashinyan announced that he is now starting a velvet revolution and they must block public institutions. During the rally, the crowd of protesters stretched from the French Square to Amiryan Street.

Some related links:

• Protests Against Serzh Sargsyan.
• Read the brief article Armenian “Velvet” Revolution.
• Read the detailed article Velvet Revolution of Armenia.

After the resignation of Serzh Sargsyan, which took place on April 23, Nikol Pashinyan made a speech at the Republic Square of Armenia.

In his speech, he said:

I ask to accredit me to negotiate on behalf of the people with the acting Prime Minister Karen Karapetyan over smoothly passing the power.

 Pashinyan – Karapetyan Meeting

The Meeting Did Not Take Place

At midnight on April 24, the spokesperson for the Civil Treaty party Tigran Avinyan made a statement. He said that the meeting of Nikol Pashinyan and Karen Karapetyan will not take place on April 25. as their demands have not been met. He said that negotiations could only take place on the peaceful transfer of the power. Also, if the the NA snap elections take place. There should be no ruling Republican Party of Armenia in the Transitional Government.

At midnight, President of the Artsakh Republic Bako Sahakyan met with Nikol Pashinyan. According to media reports, they discussed internal political issues in Armenia.

Later Nikol Pashinyan in the live broadcast stated that if he did not get a call from the Republican Party, they would start protest actions early in the morning. He also said that his meeting should be in the format 3 + 3. Karen Karapetyan, Ara Babloyan and Vahram Baghdasaryan should take part from ruling party. The agenda should be exclusively on the peaceful transfer of power. The negotiation process should be in the same format as his meeting with Serzh. (i.e the presence of the press)

Acting Prime Minister, member of the Republican Party Karen Karapetyan stated that the negotiations will not take place. The reason being that the demands put forward by Nikol Pashinyan, that is, the format of the meeting, agenda and the coverage are unacceptable to them. He also added that they would not attend the meeting, as Nikol Pashinyan offered the list of people participating from the authorities. Also because Pashinyan stated that he would negotiate exclusively on his agenda.

On April 25, 2018, mass protests against the current Armenian authorities continued in many settlements in Armenia. The demonstrators were protesting, marching, blocking the streets and roads.

Meeting of the Republican Party Members

According to a press release by the Republican Party of Armenia, Serzh Sargsyan attended the first half of the meeting. He presented the members the reasons for his resignation in more detail He also talked about different formats of work in the National Assembly. Additionally, urged to set the stability and security of the country as primary importance. He stated that they can achieve it only through the unity of the Republican Party.

In the second part of the meeting, the members discussed the current political situation and possible developments. (with Karen Karapetyan). After the agreement, they announced that the Republican faction is ready to discuss any issue with all sides without preconditions.

Pashinyan’s second invite

Nikol Pashinyan, on April 27, invited Karapetyan to the “Marriott” hotel to start the second stage of the negotiation process.

“The previous round of negotiations failed because of the following. When I was going to meet Karen Karapetyan, there were Republicans who said that he did not represent them. Yesterday they had a party meeting with Serzh Sargsyan’s participation. Eventually, they came to a common agreement that Karen Karapetyan should be authorized to negotiate,” Pashinyan said.

“As previously, we are ready to continue the negotiation process within the framework of our proposed agenda. Tomorrow, at 12:00 pm, I invite Karen Karapetyan to the Marriott Hotel to start the second stage of the negotiation process,” he added.

The oppositionist underlined that there is one concrete precondition for the negotiations. It should take place with the participation of journalists. “To make public aware of what we are discussing”.

“We will not negotiate with the Republican Party behind closed doors, we will negotiate in front of the people. Because we declare that the people are the government, the people are our leader, the people are our boss. We have to be accountable to our leader for every step we take” , he added.

Karen Karapetyan doesn’t accept the invite

Prime Minister’s spokesman Aram Araratyan said in a statement on his Facebook page.

“Nikol Pashinyan’s invitation does not differ from the previous one,. Except that this time he does not dictate who should attend the negotiations. Karen Karapetyan’s answer is the same as the last time. Negotiations, where one party exclusively dictates the agenda and the other can not present their own, can’t be considered negotiations.

Besides, Karen Karapetyan remains the view that the holding of negotiations before the media suggests that the goal of the negotiations is not to record any results. That’s why participation in “negotiations”, which is unlikely to get a soultion, is unpromising”.

Pashinyan’s response was:

“I think that Karen Karapetyan is not sure about his negotiating strength. And as a man not quite sure about his negotiating strength inside his homeland, how is he going to negotiate on the Karabakh issue at all?”

In additions, the Prime Minister elections should be taking place on March 1.

Pashinyan’s speech on April 28

There is no doubt that the non-violent, national velvet revolution launched in Armenia a month ago has won. And we need another short period of time for turning that that victory, that de facto victory into de jure. And I am glad to see that our people are standing in the defense of this strong victory.

Some people hoped that the nation would be so happy about Serzh Sargsyan’s resignation that they would forget what he had gathered for. Serzh Sargsyan’s resignation is a necessary but insufficient condition to complete this process. The de facto victory of the people must be de jure.

But the revolution shouldn’t stop even there, because the main meaning of the revolution is that from now on, no one, no party, no group, no clan will own the power. Regardless of their status and position. The government will belong to the nation, only and only to the nation, solely to the nation.

This victory has one author, one director, one owner, and that owner is the victorious citizen of the Republic of Armenia and the people of the Republic of Armenia.

According to him, the Republican Party and the Acting Prime Minister Karen Karapetyan should understand that there is no longer a country that they can govern.

They will not be able to take a breathe even for a minute, as long as they do not accept the nationwide victory.

Nikol’s Speech About Negotiations

There are many talks about negotations, but these negotiations don’t take place for a variety of reasons. I want to confirm that we are ready for negotiations and we are interested in solving this problem day before. And if there are any complications in this or that format, we are ready directly negotiate with all the members of the Parliament at the same time.

In other words, we are ready to meet the deputies in one room and discuss the situation and offer our solutions and listen to their opinions. We are ready to meet with all deputies at the same time if there is a need. We are also ready to negotiate with other acceptable formats. I want to say that we are the ones most interested in the end of this history, in recording the de jure victory the day before.

During the rally in Vanadzor, the opposition also leader announced that the Republican Party will not nominate a PM.

Vice-President of the National Assembly, a member of the RP Sharmazanov announced during the press conference:

Today, the representatives of the Republican Party of Armenia met with the President of the Republican Party of Armenia (RPA) Serzh Sargsyan and First Deputy Chairman of the Republican Party of Armenia Karen Karapetyan.

The agenda included one issue – the domestic political situation in Armenia and the participation of the Republican Party of Armenia in the May 1 parliamentary elections.

Taking into account the internal political situation, the Republican Party of Armenia has always mentioned that the most important thing for us is the interests of the state, the interests of the Homeland, the security of Armenia and Artsakh and its internal stability.

Being guided by these challenges and these priorities, the Republican Party has decided today: a) The Republican Party of Armenia will not nominate a candidate for the PM and b) the Republican Party of Armenia will discuss all the candidates, the programs of all candidates and together will present their decision before the votes. That’s all.

Article Pashinyan – Karapetyan Meeting is the first on iArmenia: Armenian History, Holidays, Sights, Events.

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March to Tsitsernakaberd

On April 24, thousands of people marched to the Genocide Memorial in Tsitsernakaberd from the Republic Square for the 103rd anniversary. Nikol Pashinyan lead the march. At about 8.30 pm, Nikol Pashinyan held press conference for the foreign media, which lasted about an hour. Media outlets from Russia, the European Union and other countries participated in the press conference.

Article Nikol Pashinyan’s Speech is the first on iArmenia: Armenian History, Holidays, Sights, Events.

RA Prime Minister Serzh Sargsyan resigned at 4:15 pm on April 23. In his last speech, he said:

Dear Compatriots,
I turn to all citizens of the Republic of Armenia, adults and my beloved youngsters, women and men.
I turn to those who stay in the streets day and night with their “Deny Serzh” calls, and to people, who through these days, through the closed streets, hardly reach to their workplace, to those who cheerfully perform their duties.
And to those who centered all their attention to the live broadcasts for days and nights and those who ensure the public’s security all day long.

I appeal to our brave soldiers and officers standing at the border, to my companions, I appeal to my fellow party friends, all political forces and politicians. As the head of the country, this is the last time I appeal to you.

Nikol Pashinyan was right. I was wrong. The created situation has some solutions, but I will not go to any of them. That’s not mine. I leave the post of the country’s prime minister.

The movement of the street is against my premiership. I fulfill your claim.
Peace, harmony and logic to our country.
Thank you.

THIS IS HOW THE NATION RESPONDED

After Serzh Sargsyan’s resignation, tens of thousands of citizens marched from the provinces and other parts of Yerevan to Republic Square in order to attend the rally at 18:30. Republic Square, adjacent streets, including Mashtots Avenue, Amiryan Street, and also Tigran Mets Street were full of tens of thousands of citizens. They were dancing, chanting “Free, Independent Armenia”. Citizens sang, dance, and also chanted “Victory, Victory” in Yerevan squares, squares of towns and villages as well.

After Serzh Sargsyan’s resignation, many political forces and politicians made statements.

Prosperous Armenia Party

Gagik Tsarukyan

During the RA Prime Minister’s election, Prosperous Armenia was, in fact, the second political force by the number of votes for Serzh Sargsyan. The leader of the Prosperous Armenia Party Gagik Tsarukyan, after the resignation, stated that they are next to the nation and should build Armenia together.

Armenian Renaissance (former Rule of Law) Party

Artur Baghdasaryan

The  party leader Artur Baghdasaryan, who, in addition, has been in the alliance with the party ruled by Serzh Sargsyan, after the latter’s resignation announced that he is ready to meet with Nikol Pashinyan and discuss the proposal for snap parliamentary elections.

Armenian National Congress Party

Levon Ter-Petrosyan

The first president of Armenia, Levon Ter-Petrosyan, the leader of the Armenian National Congress party also made a statement on the resignation. He congratulated the people of Armenia on Serzh Sargsyan’s resignation and on the inevitable follow-up of the criminal-oligarchic system. As he stated, the struggle for years has finally been crowned with success, opening doors for democracy in the country. He also noted that this was the most important but just the first step. “From today on, all of us live in another Armenia. And with the same consistency and inspiration, our society should devote to building a new, democratic Homeland”. He also added that, “the main task now is to ensure smooth transfer of power and government”.

Armenian Revolutionary Federation Party

Arsen Hambardzumyan

After the resignation of Sergzh Sargsyan, the Armenian Revolutionary Federation Party, which also supported Serzh Sargsyan’s premiership, stated that “the party will continue its efforts for the formation of that dialogue and solidarity. The main guarantee of the success of the launched process is the activity of our citizens, especially the younger generation. It is also very important to ensure the success of the next milestone. We must continue the peaceful nature of the people’s movement. In parallel, taking into account the necessity of establishing a normal life in the country. The People’s Movement should continue to prevent any external interference with our inner life. Also, should provide conditions for solving existing problems in the political arena.”

Sasna Tsrer Organization

Pavel Manukyan

Zhirayr Sefilyan and Varujan Avetisyan, who were in jail, have issued a statement on the events in Armenia on behalf of Sasna Tsrer. Their call says, “We welcome the nationwide victory that you have brought in Civil Sardarapat with pride and admiration. You have proved that the Armenian, the citizen of Armenia, is free, dignified and brave.

With special warmth and love we greet the youngsers. They became the leaders and the driving force of the struggle, bringing the culture of the future. They also inspired us to believe in the fulfillment of national desires and human happiness.

We also greet the soldiers who joined their people. They “hit the last nail on the regime’s coffin”. At the same time, we call on military servicemen, who perfrom combat duties. We call on them to remain in positions and to control the border with double zeal and care. We especially greet the organizers and leaders of Civil Sardarapat. That is, Nikol Pashinyan, Sasun Mikayelyan, Ararat Mirzoyan, Lena Nazaryan, David Sanasaryan, Armen Grigoryan, Levon Barseghyan and other devoted ones. You have been able to make all Armenians move. You could wake our volcanic people up and direct their fierce flow for the sake of Homeland and statehood. All of you together you made April 24 the Day of National Revival ”

Political rearrangements took place in the country

Consequently, in the afternoon of April 23, after the resignation of the Republican Party of Armenia President Serzh Sargsyan, according to the current Constitution, the first deputy prime minister, Karen Karapetyan, became the prime minister.

After a few hours of the resignation, the president also appointed a number of ministers on various fields. And after the appointment of the new ministers, the Armenian government with the head Karen Karapetyan convened a government session.

On April 23, RA President Armen Sargsyan accepted the resignation of the Government of Armenia.

In the evening of April 23, a rally with thousands of people started in Yerevan’s Republic Square. Pashinyan also spoke during the rally. He talked about the changes in Armenia’s state governance system, the current situation and also their further steps.

Next read: Nikol Pashinayn’s Speech

Article SERZH SARGSYAN’S RESIGNATION is the first on iArmenia: Armenian History, Holidays, Sights, Events.

On April 17, the National Assembly elections of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia started. Serzh Sargsyan became the prime minister. 77 National Assembly deputies voted for, 15 voted against.

At about 12:10, during the rally in the French Square, Nikol Pashinyan announced that he is now starting a velvet revolution and they must block public institutions. During the rally, the crowd of protesters stretched from the French Square to Amiryan Street.

Read more at Protests Against Serzh Sargsyan.

Read the brief article Armenian “Velvet” Revolution.

THE VELVET REVOLUTION OF ARMENIA

Leader of ‘My Step’ initiative Nikol Pashinyan and other young activists hold a protest march in Yerevan, Armenia

Thousands of demonstrators marched From the French Square to the Republic Square. They began to block the building of the General Prosecutor’s Office and the Court of Cassation. After that, they blocked the building of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Serge Sargsyan’s brother, Levon Sargsyan was blocked there.

As of 13:10, the crowd of demonstrators stretched from the beginning of Abovyan street to the Yerevan City Hall building. Many Armenians had also invaded the Armenian Embassy in Moscow and declared a sit-in.

Nikol Pashinyan also blocked the building of the Central Bank of Armenia together with the demonstrators. They blocked the Victory bridge and the Investigative Department as well.

As of 14:15, the protestors had already blocked a number of streets and roads in different regions of Armenia.

According to Freedom Radio Station information, Arakel Movsisyan had created bandit groups for attacking the demonstrators. He, in additionl is from Republican Party of Armenia, is the former deputy of the RA National Assembly.

On April 17, in the evening, the rally of the forces fighting against the premiership of Serzh Sargsyan, elected by the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia, began with thousands of people present in the Republic Square.

Nikol Pashinyan, while speaking during the rally, announced that they will continue their protests. He called on to block all possible streets in Yerevan on April 18 at 10:00 am. As well as addressing representatives of the Armenian Diaspora, including Serj Tankian, Arsine Khanjyan, Charles Aznavour to come to Armenia and join the people.

International References

• U.S. Department of State

We have noticed that a large number of protest rallies are taking place in Yerevan and other Armenian cities. Thousands of Armenian citizens came out to the streets to actualize their right to expression freedom and implementing rallies. We closely follow the protest rallies in the center of Yerevan and other cities in Armenia. We are encouraged by the respectful and responsible behavior of most of the protesters and police during these last few days. However, we are concerned about the clashes between the police and the demonstrators, during which there were victims. We call on all sides to be restrained and avoid any tension or violent action.

• Human Rights Watch

Human Rights Watch international human rights organization closely monitors political demonstrations and protests in Armenia. Unfortunately, Armenia has a history of hindering free rallies and peaceful protests and also use of disproportionate force against demonstrators, which has been repeated this time as well.

That is why we are following the inner political developments in Armenia with great care and we urge the Armenian authorities not to hinder the free demonstrations of peaceful protestors.

This morning, Human Rights Watch issued a statement reminding the RA authorities of the past of the use of excessive force by law enforcement officials during demonstrations.

We possess all the details of domestic political developments in Armenia and call on the Armenian authorities to respect their internationally accepted commitments. We have already recorded that yesterday the police had thrown light grenades towards the protesters. Law enforcement officials should refrain from the use of such grenades. Even though they have non-lethal effects, they can cause serious damage and have serious consequences for human health.

• European Union

The right to implement free rallies in a peaceful manner and in accordance with the law is a universal and fundamental right of all.

The European Union expects the Armenian authorities to fully respect this right and to apply the law in a fair and proportionate manner, in accordance with Armenia’s international obligations, including particularly the European Convention on the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms convention. All those who have been detained while realizing their fundamental right of implementing rallies in accordance with the law must be released immediately.

It is disappointing and worrying that today’s short meeting between PM Serzh Sargsyan and deputy Nikol Pashinyan did not prevent further escalations.

Government session

On April 19, the first session of the newly elected government under the leadership of Serzh Sargsyan started in the RA Government building. In the course of the session, demonstrators held a rally in front of the government building, and cars passing through the square beeped as a sign against Sargsyan’s premiership. During the session, Serzh Sargsyan asked the government to take the presidential mansion back.

Statements by authorities and religious leaders

On April 20, Cilicia Catholicos of the Armenian Apostolic Church Aram I arrived in Yerevan. Together with Catholicos of All Armenians Garegin II, he met the newly elected Prime Minister Serzh Sargsyan. During the meeting, Garegin II and Aram I congratulated Serzh Sargsyan on his election as Prime Minister wishing him strength, efficacy, patience, and endurance.

Catholicos of All Armenians Garegin II said:

We pray for this situation to gradually calm down and for the people to be guided by the commitment of our homeland building, the security of our country. We, sure, have difficulties in our lives, but there are also many challenges and we can face these challenges only with the national unity and solidarity.

There is also April 24 ahead, the Day of Commemoration of the Armenian Genocide. And the sacrament of that day should be in the minds and perceptions of every Armenian and lead them to live upright and lead our way forward so that we can spare our country from tragedies and losses.

We have Artsakh, we have young Armenians serving on the borders of our homeland, whose security, we know, is your constant concern Mr. Prime Minister. We know your thoughts in this regard. May God keep us, keep our people in love, in peace. This is our wish, this is our prayer.

Catholicos of All Armenians Aram I said:

The creation of an atmosphere of tension and uncertainty in aggressive expressions during these days involving youth and teenagers in the country, hurt both our people and our country’s perception of the outside world. After all, the consequences of these rallies or the overcoming of the damages will last for months. That is, the country can be damaged.

We have to tell the demonstrators that this is the homeland of all of us, all of us are the children of this homeland, we are a family. There will be difficulties and problems, but you have to sit down and with mutual understanding discuss the questions around the table, not on the street.

With this effort to examine the issues, it is necessary to seek ways to solve them together. This is what it should be. Continuing in this manner, in such a way, is harmful to the homeland, it hurts our people.

Consequently, I am glad that you, too, Mr. Prime Minister, have called for the forces to come side by side, sit, and speak around the table. This conversation under the leadership of the President and you should happen, because the continuation of this situation will greatly harm our homeland, our people, especially Artsakh.

It’s time to come together because we are besieged by non-friendly forces. There are, of course, questions, but we should talk about these issues within the limits of mutual love and respect. This is what we wanted to convey to you, Mr. Prime Minister.

Other people:

Member of the Republican Party of Armenia, deputy of the National Assembly of Armenia Karine Achemyan stated in a conversation with the journalist that the protesters are not the whole nation yet and it is shameful to do so because the tourists will have a bad impression. She also touched upon corruption, saying corruption exists in all countries.

Other than that, on April 20, members of the Armenian Chess Team, including Levon Aronyan, Smbat Lputyan, Vladimir Akopian, Artashes Minasyan. Gabriel Sargsyan, Tigran L. Petrosyan, Rafael Vahanyan, head coach of the team Arshak Petrosyan congratulated Serzh Sargsyan on his election as Prime Minister and publicly expressed their support.

Evening rally in Republic Square (April 20)

At 6:40 pm, the rally started at the Republic Square. According to the media, this rally was the largest in the series of actions against Serzh Sargsyan’s premiership. A number of citizens and public figures made speeches. The demonstrators regularly chanted, “Take your step, Deny Serzh”, “Put your weapons, Deny Serzh”, “Armenia”, “Unity”.

The speakers talked about the number of detainees (more than 200 citizens). As well as the legality of actions in the police department, violence against the citizens protesting in the Echmiadzin region and elsewhere. Also, about the protest actions in and around the Armenian diaspora. The names of the well-known people who have touched upon the inner-political events in the country were also listed.

At 9 pm, the final speech of the rally began with Nikol Pashinyan. In his speech, Nikol Pashinyan said that they are ready to negotiate with the authorities only on one topic – the capitulation of Serzh Sargsyan and the Republican Party of Armenia.

In his speech, he also touched upon their future plans:

I want to present the vision of the future.

1. S. Sargsyan resigns from PM’s post
2. National Assembly chooses PM from the candidates of chosen by the nation
3. Formation of a temporary government
4. When a temporary government is formed, the National Assembly does not adopt the government’s plan. After which the law requires extraordinary parliamentary elections.

Here are the points of this program we are ready to discuss with the Republican Party as a smooth transfer of power to the people of Armenia.

These elections will not leave any doubt, they should be 100 percent fair. There should be free elections and winners should always be the people. Now and after this, only the people of Armenia should win the elections. And the next day after the election the Armenian citizen should say, “I formed the government, I chose, I am the government of fair Armenia. “

Nikol Pashinyan’s urgent call

On April 21, at 23:40, Nikol Pashinyan urgently made a live announcement. He announced that he will meet with Prime Minister Serzh Sargsyan on April 22 to discuss the latter’s resignation at Marriott Hotel.

Pashinyan and Sargsyan Meeting

In the morning of April 22, 2018, a public meeting between Serzh Sargsyan and Nikol Pashinyan took place. at the Marriott Hotel in Yerevan.

During the meeting, Serzh Sargsyan announced that the party, which received 7-8% of votes, has no right to speak on behalf of the people. He called for a legal framework. Nikol Pashinyan stated that Serzh Sargsyan does not possess the situation in the country. Also, that they will negotiate only on peaceful and passive transfer of the authority.

Then Serzh Sargsyan announced that he would no longer continue the meeting in such a format and that those against him did not take lessons from the events of March 1. After 5 minutes of the meeting, Serzh Sargsyan left the meeting hall.

Then, Nikol Pashinyan stated in an interview with reporters that they would continue their protest actions at a new pace.

After the failed negotiations, in the run-up to the march launched from the Republic Square in Yerevan, the RA police units used special sound equipment at the end of the Artsakh street. They arrested a number of protest rallies, including Nikol Pashinyan.

After the clashes in Yerevan, Gyumri, Vanadzor and other towns and villages, protest actions were resumed. Hundreds of citizens were taken to police stations in Armenia. Protesting Citizens in various settlements carried out thousands of marches, blocked cities, and roads throughout the day. In the afternoon hundreds of rows of cars arrived in Yerevan from the regions of Armenia. Thousands of rallies in Yerevan and other major cities in the evening took place. More than 160,000 citizens participated in the rally of Yerevan’s Republic Square.

The Events of April 23

On April 23, mass protests against Serzh Sargsyan’s government began in the capital of the Republic of Armenia. Meetings and marches started in different squares and streets, educational institutions and other places in the city.

Employees of various enterprises and organizations announced a strike. In the morning, more than 10 universities in Yerevan, including the Yerevan State University,  also started strikes. The instructors went marching and joined together.

At 11:00, ministers made statements in the format of the press conference. RA Minister of Defense Vigen Sargsyan, Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian, Minister of Justice Davit Harutyunyan also made press conferences. At 13:00, Armenian President Armen Sargsyan made a speech.

In the morning of April 23, protest actions also began in the city of Etchmiadzin. Thousands of demonstrators marched through the streets of the city calling on people to join them.

A series of breathtaking videos!

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Article Velvet Revolution of Armenia is the first on iArmenia: Armenian History, Holidays, Sights, Events.

Mass protests took place in Armenia to make the former president Serzh Sargsyan resign without any bloodshed or foreign interference.

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Briefly About Serzh Sargsyan

Serzh Sargsyan finished Stepanakert Secondary School. In 1971, he entered the Yerevan State University. In 1979, he graduated from YSU Faculty of Philology.

He was the Minister of the Supreme Council of Armenia in 1990. From 1993-95 – Minister of Defense of the Republic of Armenia. During 1995-96, he was the head of State Security Department, then, Minister of National Security. In 1996-99, Minister of Internal Affairs and National Security. 1999-2000 – Head of the Presidential Staff.

In 1999-2007 – Secretary of the National Security Council under the President of the Republic of Armenia, 2000-2007 – Minister of Defense, 2007-2008 – Prime Minister. Finally, since April 9, 2008, he has been the Armenian President.

As a result of the four-day war in April, 2016, the Armenian side lost some territories. Serzh Sargsyan was the first to consider these territories as a buffer zone. They, according to him, were of no strategic or tactical significance.

Many politicians, political analysts and warlords, however, believe that these territories had strategic values and that their loss had a negative impact on the country.

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 The Moving Force of the Revolution

Protests and marches against Serzh Sargsyan (famous as “Deny Serzh”, as well as “Make your step, deny Serzh”. Social networks use the #MerzhirSerzhin(#DenySerzh) hashtag. There are also slogans for the police “Put your weapons, deny Serge “Slogans”, and also for drivers “If you’re against Serzh, make a beep “.) took place in Armenia, in 2018, against the third term of Serzh Sargsyan’s tenure. The main activities took place from April 16 till 24.

Serzh Sargsyan became the President of the Republic of Armenia in 2008, then he was re-elected in 2013. The Armenian Constitution, adopted in 1995, banned the same person from being the president for more than twice.

On September 4, 2013, Serzh Sargsyan signed a decree on the establishment of a professional body on constitutional reforms adjunct to the President of Armenia. On April 10, 2014, they introduced the project of constitutional reform concept to Serzh Sargsyan.

According to it, the country should change its system to a parliamentary one and the prime minister(the National Assembly Ministers elect him) should be the leader of the country. On the same day, Serzh Sargsyan officially announced that he will no longer be nominated for the position of the RA President or Prime Minister.

He particularly said:

“And before the start of the discussions, I officially state that I, Serzh Sargsyan, will never be nominated for the position of the President of the Republic of Armenia. If there is a path that does not fit my desire in the results of the final discussions, I mean the model of the parliamentary system, then I will not pretend to the post of Prime Minister as well. I’m sure that one person generally should not have to rule twice in his life in Armenia.”
– Serzh Sargsyan, April 10, 2014

The referendum was adopted on February 6, 2015. However, a few days before the end of the second term of the presidency, Serzh Sargsyan confirmed that he does not exclude his candidacy for the post of the prime minister.

Armenia Under Serzh Sargsyan

For 10 years, Sargsyan had been the president of Armenia. As the president, he let Russia extend its military presence in the Republic of Armenia. Other than that, he also cooperated with the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Joined Putin’s pet project the Eurasian Economic Union. Then, he signed a partnership agreement with the European Union.

Also, Armenia economically was in a very poor condition under Sargsyan. The strong economic ties to Russia served a reason for the slow economic growth. And it’s not that RA had many other options.

The government consistently ran high budget deficits. Unemployment in its place remains above 16 percent. In addition, about 11.6 percent of the population lives below the official poverty level.

According to a source, as of 2017,  about one million people born in Armenia live outside their homeland while only 3 million are still living there. Together with the entire Armenian diaspora, (they spread over the world long before the country became independent) there are around 8 million Armenians living worldwide.

The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, after observing all major Armenian elections, reported widespread pressure, intimidation and also vote-buying during Sargsyan’s presidency. As the leader of the whole nation, he also failed to eliminate the widespread corruptions taking place in the country.

On March 31, 2018, a member of the Civilian Treaty, and deputy of Parliament Nikol Pashinyan began a protest march. It started from Gyumri, passing through Vanadzor, Dilijan, Hrazdan, Abovyan and on April 13, reached to Yerevan’s Liberty Square, followed by round-the-clock rallies.

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Briefly About Nikol Pashinyan

Nikol was born on June 1, 1975, in Ijevan. In 1991-95, he studied at Yerevan State University. In the fifth year of graduation, he dropped out for political reasons. Since 1992, has actively engaged in journalism.

He has worked for many newspapers. In 1999, he was the Editor-in-Chief of “Haykakan Zhamanak(Armenian Time)” daily, occupying this post until 2012. In August 1999, he was sentenced to one year in prison, again for political reasons.

During the presidential elections in 2008, he was a member of the pre-election headquarters of presidential candidate Levon Ter-Petrosyan.

After 1 March 2008, while being in search, he spent a year and four months in hiding. On July 1, 2009, he voluntarily appeared at the RA General Prosecutor’s Office. There he was arrested and sentenced to 7 years in prison. They accused him of organizing mass disorders on March 1, 2008. Having spent one year and 11 months in prison, he was released on May 27, 2011, by an amnesty decision.

In 2012, he was elected as a deputy during parliamentary elections. During 2013-2015, he was a member of the “Civil Treaty” public-political union. In 2016 May, he was the commander of the “Civil Treaty” volunteer detachment.

He became a Deputy of the National Assembly in the elections of 2017, April 2nd, with “Elq(Exit; Way out)” alliance electoral list. Since May 2017, the leader of Elq parliamentary faction.

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THE PROTESTS AGAINST SERZH SARGSYAN

As a reminder, the Republican Party of Serzh Sargsyan won the parliamentary election in 2017. He did not keep his word and was elected as the prime minister after his second presidential term ran out.

Armenians no longer could put up with the injustice.

“My Step”

On April 8, “My Step” initiative closed the Yerevan-Dilijan highway for 10 minutes. On April 11, RA National Assembly deputies Ararat Mirzoyan and Lena Nazaryan lit up the material in their hands. There was colorful smoke near the chair of the National Assembly session hall. This way they were calling on the people to come to the Freedom Square on April 13.

In addition, there is a song for “My Step” initiative – the song “The Citizen’s Song”. The author of the lyrics is Nikol Pashinyan, the author and performer of music, Hayk Stver. See below:

“Deny Serzh” and “Help Serzh to retire”

On April 5, the “Deny Serzh” initiative organized a symbolic action in the center of Yerevan and collected money for Serzh Sargsyan’s pension.

The “Deny Serzh” carried out a march from Freedom Square to Yerevan’s central streets on April 9. On April 11, they closed the intersection of Tigran Mets-Melik Adamyan streets for about half an hour with the support of the “For The Republic of Armenia” front. The latter held its first rally at Liberty Square on April 10.

On April 9, Vardges Gaspari, a civil activist, held a poster “Serzhik – a murderer, serzhik – a scoundrel” in front of the home of the fourth president of Armenia, Armen Sargsyan. Police, however, used force against the civil activist, and as a result, his state of health deteriorated.

Various actions took place during those days, showing the nation’s displeasure.

Marches and Rallies

On April 13, members of the “My Step” initiative, marched from Gyumri to Yerevan. There, the members of the “Deny Serzh” initiative greeted them at the avenues of Yerevan’s Avan district. The members of the “My Step” and “Deny Serzh” initiatives arrived at Liberty Square at about 6:30 pm. Many citizens were waiting for them.

On the same day members of the “For The Republic of Armenia” front started rallies from Yerevan Gyulbenkyan Street and Komitas Avenue crossroad to the Liberty Square. They reached the residence of the Prime Minister (former president) in the Baghramyan Avenue. For a while, they closed a part of the avenue’s carriageway. Afterward, the members of the initiative entered Liberty Square.

In the morning of April 16, the former president of the Republic of Armenia, the leader of the ruling Republican Party of Armenia (RPA), Serzh Sargsyan, in an interview with Russian “Izvestia” news agency, responded to the question on his post as prime minister, saying he was “ready to take such responsibility”.

March towards the Parliament building

The demonstrators smashed the first few police barricades and headed towards the National Assembly building.

According to “Azatutyun(Freedom)” radio station news, the police used barbed wires in Baghramyan Avenue and mobilized new forces after the protesters tried to move. Nikol Pashinyan was injured when trying to break the barriers.

The police also used tear gas, sound grenades an, other means, causing numerous people injuries. Meanwhile, authorities decided to disperse the demonstration. However, Nikol Pashinyan, who was in the hospital, said that the fight continues. At about 16:30, the police transported a water tank to Bagramyan Avenue.

According to Ministry of Health, 46 medical personnel were hospitalized with injuries, 6 of them were policemen.

National Assembly Sitting – Prime Minister Election

On April 17, in the RA National Assembly building the National Assembly elections of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia started. 91 deputies along with Serzh Sargsyan attended it.

At 5:05 pm, Serzh Sargsyan became prime minister. 77 National Assembly deputies voted for, 15 voted against.

At about 12:10, during the rally in the French Square, Nikol Pashinyan announced that he is now starting a velvet revolution and they must block public institutions. During the rally, the crowd of protesters stretched from the French Square to Amiryan Street.

Article Protests Against Serzh Sargsyan is the first on iArmenia: Armenian History, Holidays, Sights, Events.

Armenian “Velvet” Revolution

“REVOLUTION” WORD

The word “Revolution” comes from Latin “revolutio” which means “a turn around”. The revolution, in political science, is a change in political power and political organization, which occurs when the population wants to bring their freedom from the current government by protesting against it.

For centuries revolution has been an activity that creates destructions. Many politicians avoided it as it may cause serious economic and social problems in a country. In very few cases revolution was peaceful.

As in many countries, in Armenia also, the revolution was an expected action. As many citizens didn’t want the current government to rule the country, especially the president Serzh Sargsyan (who would become the prime minister during the parliamentary election), they came out of their houses to protest against him and his party.
For several months Armenian people didn’t have the right leader who would suggest a vivid plan. This time Nikol Pashinyan took that responsibility to direct the people. He is a politician, deputy, and journalist.

Armenian “Velvet” Revolution

How did it start?

On March 31, 2018, at 12 o’clock in the Vardanants Square of Gyumri started the campaign having a name of “My step”. Its purpose was the prevention of Serzh Sargsyan’s third term ruling of the country.

Nikol Pashinyan took the first step, and Gyumri-Yerevan 14-days campaign started. During 14 days, they passed around 200 km only by walking. The opposition deputy had a big hope that became a reality. After 14-days, on the 13th April Nikol Pashinyan reached to Azatutyun square in Yerevan, Armenia. From here the range of the civil disobediences started.

Armenian “Velvet” Revolution

The demonstrators closed the streets, blocked buildings, many companies, were on strike, lots of students joined the demonstrators. Initially, there were fewer people, but after a few days, more and more people from different parts of the country joined the demonstrators.

In the beginning, according to the plan, they would prevent the prime minister election of Serzh Sargsyan. But when the day came the demonstrators couldn’t act according to the plan. Serzh Sargsyan was elected RA Prime Minister at RA National Assembly. The demonstration, strikes, blocking the buildings were going on.
On April 23, the new elected prime minister resigned.

Armenian “Velvet” Revolution

Everyone, in every part of the country, was happy as they considered it as their victory. Dances, singings and other actions that come from the happiness were spread over the streets.

But after this, a new long way started for Armenians. They demanded the resignation of Karen Karapetyan – the prime minister after Serzh Sargsyan – and the Republican Party of Armenia.

Armenian “Velvet” Revolution

The “Velvet” Revolution

The leader Nikol Pashinyan called the revolution “velvet”. And really, it was peaceful, clean and free of destructions. There was a matter of choosing a prime minister whom the citizens would propose.

And they, as well as deputies proposed Nikol Pashinyan to be the prime minister. Mr. Pashinyan announced that he is ready to take that responsibility.

In the Republic Square, there was a big crowd on 1st of May. Thousands of people were waiting for the results of the election of prime minister. Everyone was watching the session occurring in the RA National Assembly that lasted more than 8 hours. They were sure that Nikol Pashinyan would be elected, but it didn’t happen. The citizens wondered, but they were not disappointed.

Armenian “Velvet” Revolution

As atatutyun.am writes:

“The Armenian parliament failed to elect opposition leader Nikol Pashinian prime minister on Tuesday despite his warnings about continued unrest in the country.

Pashinian was backed by only 45 members of the 105-seat National Assembly following a lengthy and heated debate on his bid to succeed Serzh Sarkisian as premier. He needed at least 53 votes.

Fifty-five other lawmakers representing Sarkisian’s Republican Party of Armenia (HHK) voted against him in line with a decision announced by the HHK leadership shortly before the vote. HHK leaders said during the debate that Pashinian is not fit to govern the country. They also pointed to his lack of government experience and questioned his ability to serve as commander-in-chief of Armenia’s armed forces.”

Armenian “Velvet” Revolution

The next day more citizens came to the Republic Square to make their voices heard. For 2 weeks there were no lessons in the universities and in many schools. From morning till the night demonstrators contended. At 7 PM the meeting started.

At the end of the meeting, Nikol Pashinyan announced, that from 3th of May the strikes, blocking and demonstrations will be over till the 8th of May. So, everyone, on the next day did how the leader said.

What to Expect?

So, on 8th of May, there will be the second election of the prime minister. Nikol Pashinyan is the only candidate. The citizens are sure that this time the Republican Party of Armenia will support Pashinyan to be the prime minister.

There will be a meeting on 8th of May. The citizens decided to wear white clothes as a symbol of peace.

Article Armenian “Velvet” Revolution is the first on iArmenia: Armenian History, Holidays, Sights, Events.