According to preliminary results, the pro-European ruling party Civil Contract achieved a substantial lead over its main challenger, the pro-Russian alliance Strong Armenia led by Samvel Karapetyan. Prime Minister Pashinyan spoke of a historic victory for his party after the vote.
Pro-EU
The elections centered on a fundamental choice about Armenia’s future. Pashinyan positioned himself as a supporter of closer cooperation with the European Union and further democratic reforms. His opponents wanted to strengthen the traditional ties with Russia.
In the run-up to the elections, the European Union openly expressed support for the government in Yerevan. Even after the announcement of the preliminary results, congratulations came from Brussels. European leaders emphasized their willingness to continue cooperation with Armenia.
Promotion
Warning
At the same time, the relationship with Russia played a major role in the election campaign. Moscow is still considered an important economic partner of Armenia. However, relations have come under pressure in recent years. Russia exerted economic pressure on Yerevan and warned of the consequences of further rapprochement with Europe.
Interference
During the election campaign, there were also accusations of Russian interference. Armenian media, civil society organizations, and politicians from the ruling camp spoke of disinformation campaigns. Russia denied such allegations.
The conduct of the elections themselves also led to discussion. In the days before the vote, several people were arrested in investigations into vote buying and other violations.
Nagorno-Karabakh
Another central issue was the peace process with the predominantly Islamic neighboring country Azerbaijan. Pashinyan defended his policy as a necessary step to achieve long-term stability and peace for predominantly Christian Armenia. He referred to the country's future and the need to prevent new conflicts. The two countries have fought several wars over the Armenian enclave Nagorno-Karabakh in Azerbaijan.
New Mandate
Pashinyan’s opponents accuse him of making excessive concessions to Azerbaijan. The loss of Nagorno-Karabakh and the subsequent developments therefore remain a sensitive topic within Armenian politics.
With the election outcome, Pashinyan appears to have received a new mandate for his current course. This means that relations with the EU, the position towards Russia, and the further progress of the peace process with Azerbaijan remain decisive issues for Armenia’s future.