26 Feb 2019 | 07:46 AM UTC
Armenia: Commemoration march to be held in Yerevan March 1
Prime Minister Pashinyan to host commemoration march in Yerevan from Freedom Square to Myasnikyan Square on March 1; associated disruptions and heightened security presence expected
Event
Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan announced a march in the capital of Yerevan for Friday, March 1, in commemoration of those who died in post-election violence in 2008. The march will begin at 18:30 (local time) at Freedom Square in central Yerevan and proceed to Myasnikyan Square. Associated transportation disruptions are likely along the march route and a heightened security presence is possible.
Context
Ten people were killed in unrest on March 1, 2008, following elections two weeks earlier that were criticized as having significant problems and electoral irregularities. Demonstrations in Freedom Square lasted for ten days and were violently dispersed by security forces on March 1, resulting in the deaths of eight protesters and two security personnel.
Advice
Individuals in Yerevan are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate transportation disruptions and a heightened security presence, and avoid all public demonstrations as a precaution.
