Armenia: As of Sept. 25, further protests denouncing Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan likely in Yerevan in the coming days /update 2

Event

Protests will likely continue in Yerevan in the coming days as residents continue to denounce Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. Residents are demanding his resignation over his administration's perceived weak response to the recent conflict between ethnic Armenian forces and the Azerbaijani military in the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh. Daily protests have occurred since Sept. 19. On Sept. 24, protests took place in Republic Square, as well as multiple roads throughout the capital. On the morning of Sept. 25 protestors launched an indefinite campaign to block streets throughout the capital. Authorities have arrested at least 170 demonstrators.

Further protests are likely throughout downtown Yerevan as activist groups, including Mother Armenia, continue to call for roadblock protests and other acts of civil disobedience. Other protest hotspots include the National Assembly, the Government of Armenia building, Freedom Square, and Republic Square. Heightened security and transport disruptions are likely, particularly near government buildings. Clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement officers are possible.

Context

Armenian nationalist and opposition groups regularly protest in Yerevan to denounce the government's actions in relation to the ongoing dispute regarding Nagorno-Karabakh. Protests typically flare up in response to military and political developments that may affect the ethnic Armenian control of the disputed region.

Advice

Avoid all protests. Allow additional time if traveling in central Yerevan. Immediately depart the area at the first sign that any violent confrontation may occur. Heed instructions from authorities.