15 Sep 2022 | 12:41 PM UTC
Armenia: Anti-government protests likely to continue in Yerevan through mid-September /update 1
As of Sept. 15, further anti-government protests are likely in Yerevan, Armenia, in the coming days.
Event
As of Sept. 15, anti-government rallies are likely to continue in Yerevan in the coming days after thousands of protesters gathered in the city overnight Sept. 14-15 to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. Demonstrators are opposed to his handling of conflict-related negotiations with Azerbaijan. Likely rally points for future events include the National Assembly building on Marshal Baghramyan Avenue, Republic Square, and France Square.
Security forces will likely deploy to monitor any further protest activity. Disruptions to transport and business activity are likely in protest-affected parts of Yerevan; protest activity may extend to heretofore unaffected areas. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out. Demonstrations elsewhere in Armenia in response to the conflict are possible.
Context
The protests coincide with a recent resurgence in fighting between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Yerevan and Baku reached a ceasefire agreement on Sept. 14 to end the most recent border clashes which killed at least 155 combatants; however, activists in Armenia are opposed to Pashinyan's handling of negotiations with Azerbaijan, particularly his apparent willingness to offer territorial concessions to Azerbaijan as part of a future peace treaty. Demonstrations are likely to persist in Yerevan and elsewhere. Smaller rallies were also reported in the towns of Gyumri and Stepanakert overnight Sept. 14-15.
Advice
Avoid protest-affected areas as a routine security precaution. If violence breaks out, immediately leave the area and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Consider taking alternative routes to circumvent related disruptions. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.
