In this in-depth piece, Hovhannes Nazaretyan chronicles Armenia’s constitutional history since independence, outlining the country’s three constitutional referendums to date and detailing the current process of drafting a new Constitution.

A high-stakes clash involving PM Nikol Pashinyan, the Armenian Church and oligarch Samvel Karapetyan has triggered political, religious and geopolitical tensions, with Pashinyan calling for the nationalization of Armenia’s power grid amid charges of foreign interference and subversion.

As Armenia reorients its foreign policy away from Russia, it is deepening ties not only with the West, but also with non-Western partners. Hovhannes Nazaretyan explores Armenia’s evolving engagement with Central Asian states as part of that strategy.

A recent CRRC survey reveals Armenians overwhelmingly desire peace but expect war, amid deep security fears, political disillusionment, and shifting geopolitical loyalties. The data highlights public anxiety, fading optimism, and the complex legacy of war and diplomacy.

Successive Armenian leaders have navigated the tension between pursuing international recognition of the Armenian Genocide and maintaining diplomatic pragmatism, especially in relation to Turkey, diaspora expectations, and evolving foreign policy priorities since independence. Hovhannes Nazaretyan explains.

Yerevan’s statues reveal shifting political ideologies and national identity, from Soviet heroes to national figures, international allies and “symbolic” women. Hovhannes Nazaretyan explores how public monuments reflect power, memory and Armenia’s evolving historical and geopolitical narratives.

Armenia’s parliament passes a bill formally declaring the country’s intent to pursue EU membership. Supporters see it as a step toward strengthening democracy, security and economic well-being, while critics question its necessity, arguing that deeper ties with the EU were already progressing without such a declaration.

Armenia and Azerbaijan have finalized peace negotiations, with Yerevan accepting Baku’s proposals on the withdrawal of third-party forces on the border and all international legal claims. However, Baku insists Armenia amend its constitution to remove alleged territorial claims as a prerequisite to signing a peace treaty.

Armenia-China relations are primarily shaped by trade and expanding economic ties. While Beijing remains a key trading partner, Armenia’s foreign policy shifts have led to diplomatic uncertainties. Hovhannes Nazaretyan explores trade dynamics, investment gaps, defense cooperation and cultural exchanges.

Armenia’s economy continued to grow in 2024, though at a slower pace, while foreign trade surged. Inflation remained low, and employment reached record levels. However, birth rates declined significantly, and net migration remained negative, reflecting broader demographic shifts. Hovhannes Nazaretyan explains.