The elections, set for 7 June, carry significant implications for Europe, particularly as public sentiment in Armenia, traditionally aligned with Russia, is beginning to lean toward Brussels. Although official campaigning is set to commence 30 days before the elections, candidates have already begun their outreach efforts.

The leading candidate in the current polls is Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, who heads the political party Civil Contract. PM Pashinyan came to power in 2018 following the Velvet Revolution, a series of anti-government protests. He is campaigning for reelection on a pro-European platform. However, there are growing concerns about potential foreign interference from the Kremlin as the election date approaches.

On 21 April, the European Council established the EU Partnership Mission in Armenia (EUPM Armenia) under the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) to enhance Armenia’s democratic resilience and crisis management. The mission will address threats such as foreign information manipulation, cyber-attacks, and illicit financial flows.

“Armenians are facing massive disinformation campaigns and cyber-attacks. Over the next years, a new EU civilian mission will provide expert advice, capacity building for government departments and a team monitoring areas for urgent action. When Armenians go to the polls in June, they alone should choose their country’s future. The EU helps to protect Armenia’s resilience,” stated Kaja Kallas, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.

EUPM Armenia will provide strategic advice and capacity building to various ministries and promote a whole-of-government approach. It will also feature a project cell for implementing concrete actions in collaboration with like-minded partners.

With an initial mandate of two years, the mission’s Operational Headquarters will be in Armenia. Stefano Tomat, Managing Director of the Civilian Operations Headquarters within the European External Action Service, will serve as the Civilian Operations Commander. A Head of Mission will be appointed soon to oversee ground operations.

—