The panel discussion brought together speakers from the Armenian Helsinki Committee, Transparency International Anti-Corruption Center, Human Rights Watch, National Endowment for Democracy, American Bar Association, and George Washington University Law School.

The shortcomings of the constitutional framework, which allows ultimate concentration of power in the hands of a single individual, and corruption were seen as key factors behind the trend in Armenia, according to the report.

The panelists also noted the importance of the geopolitical context, particularly Armenia’s dependence on Russia, for understanding the conditions on the ground.

Regarding the July events, the panelists noted the outpouring of the popular support—in a “Robin Hood” effect—an outcome of frustration with poor economic and social conditions as well as the lack of political will to fight against corruption and undertake reform.

The armed group took control of the police station in the Erebuni district of Yerevan on July 17, taking several police officers hostage and killing one in the process.

The panelists stressed that the July events provide an alarming backdrop for the April 2017 election in Armenia, where several issues remain unaddressed and the low trust towards political parties and processes in Armenia is widespread.

Policy Forum Armenia is an independent non-profit association aimed at strengthening discourse on Armenia`s economic development and national security and through that helping to shape public policy in Armenia.

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