Armenia: Opposition leader calls for daily demonstrations in Yerevan as of April 20

Event

Arthur Vanetsyan, leader of the Homeland opposition party, has called for daily demonstrations in Yerevan to denounce Prime Minister Nikol Pashiyan's policies in relation to the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region. Supporters are gathering in Freedom Square around 19:00 each evening; several hundred people will likely attend each event. Participants typically hold a short march through surrounding streets in conjunction with the rally. Organizers stated the protests will occur indefinitely; the events are likely through at least the coming week.

Police will likely deploy to monitor all related gatherings. Large crowds and associated security measures, including possible road closures and movement restrictions, will likely result in localized transport disruptions around any protests. Low-level clashes between activists and police are possible, particularly if activists attempt to breach any security cordons. Bystanders are unlikely to be targeted but may face an indirect threat of being harmed.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of confrontation.