Armenia: Opposition groups call for nationwide general strike Dec. 22 /update 2

Event

Opposition groups plan to stage a nationwide general strike from 1200 Dec. 22 to increase pressure on Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan to resign. Organizers have also called for striking workers to engage in acts of civil disobedience with the intention of paralyzing the country. Protesters could set up roadblocks on major thoroughfares within or between cities during the labor action. Public transport workers could also participate in the work stoppage, prompting disruptions to rail, metro, and bus services.

Anti-government demonstrations calling for Pashinyan to step down have been ongoing since he signed a controversial peace deal with Azerbaijan on Nov. 9 to end the recent fighting in Nagorno-Karabakh. Protest activity will probably continue in the coming weeks, with the largest protests likely to take place in prominent squares and near government buildings in Yerevan; rallies could also occur in other locations nationwide, such as Gyumri, Vanadzor, and Vagharshapat.

Armenian authorities will probably maintain a high security posture over the coming weeks in order to mitigate the potential for further unrest; security forces will almost certainly respond quickly to any disruptive demonstrations that may occur, including any illegal roadblocks on major routes. Clashes are possible between demonstrators and security personnel, as well as among opposing activists.

Context

News of the peace deal, which the Armenian public essentially views as an act of surrender to Azerbaijan, immediately sparked large demonstrations by angry citizens in the nation's capital where protesters broke into the National Assembly and Government buildings before marching on the presidential residence. Seventeen political opposition parties, including Prosperous Armenia, the Republican Party, and the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (Dashnaktsutyun), are seeking to push Pashinyan out of office. Opposition legislators have already nominated former Prime Minister Vazgen Manukyan to lead a transitional government until early parliamentary elections can be held.

Advice

Exercise caution if operating in Armenia, especially Yerevan, and allow extra time to reach destinations in major cities. Avoid any protests that may materialize; keep away from areas where security forces appear to be deploying. Check public transport and route status before setting out if traveling on Dec. 22; do not attempt to cross protester roadblocks. Heed the instructions of local authorities. If violence erupts nearby, leave the area immediately.