01 Jul 2024 | 12:36 PM UTC
Armenia: Opposition protests likely to continue in Yerevan and elsewhere through at least early July /update 4
Activists likely to continue protests in Yerevan, other urban centers, Armenia, through early July. Heightened security, disruptions likely.
Opposition activists will likely continue to protest in Yerevan and other urban centers through early July to demand Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's resignation. The Tavush for the Motherland opposition movement will stage a demonstration at Saint Anna Church, central Yerevan, from 20:00 July 1; similar, large demonstrations occur regularly in Yerevan, while smaller events are held in other urban centers and on national roads nationwide. The group staged major demonstrations in Yerevan on June 12 and 17. While most gatherings conclude peacefully, violence occurred during the demonstration outside the National Assembly on June 12, injuring more than 100 people and resulting in around 100 arrests.
Protest hotspots in Yerevan include Republic Square and the National Assembly on Marshal Baghramyan Avenue. Smaller demonstrations are likely at short notice throughout central Yerevan and in other urban centers nationwide. Demonstrators periodically block major highways around the country and, at times, have caused significant local disruptions.
Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely near any protests that may materialize. The largest demonstrations will almost certainly occur in Yerevan and may draw thousands of participants. Confrontations between demonstrators and law enforcement officers or activists from rival political camps are possible and could result in clashes.
Avoid all protests as a standard precaution. Allow additional time if traveling through urban centers where demonstrations may occur, or via major highways. If possible, check traffic conditions before departure and plan alternative routes in case of blockades if planning to travel on major highways. Strictly heed all instructions from law enforcement officers. Immediately depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance.
While it is unclear how long the protest campaign may last, opposition leaders have called for daily demonstrations nationwide until Pashinyan resigns. Opposition parties have attempted to introduce a motion of no confidence in the National Assembly in recent days; however, the refusal of the ruling Civil Contract party to attend those sessions results in the assembly failing to reach a quorum, and the motion cannot be considered. Additionally, border demarcation with Azerbaijan, which initially prompted this protest movement, is set to continue. The National Assembly will vote to confirm agreed borders by July 1, and thereafter, a new round of border demarcation talks will commence with Baku. Each step in the border demarcation process will likely prompt renewed protest action and intensify calls for Pashinyan's resignation.
