Ahead of the June elections, Armenia’s ruling “Civil Contract” party published a political plan calling for the removal of the Catholicos of All Armenians and outlining a politicized “roadmap” for the reconstruction of the Armenian Apostolic Church.

According to critics, this unprecedented step is a direct violation of the country’s constitution and a drastic state intervention in religious affairs. writes the International Christian Concern (International Christian Concern, ICC)։

The program published before the upcoming elections mentions the removal of the “actual head” of the Armenian Apostolic Church as its 10th political goal, referring to Catholicos Garegin II. Notably, the document avoids using his ecclesiastical title, which observers say reflects a broader effort to undermine both the position and the institution.

In addition to the leadership change, the party’s program proposes a series of wide-ranging church reforms, including the appointment of a vicar of the Catholicos, the development of a new Church charter and the eventual election of a new Catholicos under revised structures. The proposed charter would introduce mechanisms for financial oversight and clerical discipline, areas traditionally governed by the Church.

Legal experts and defenders of religious freedom warn that such proposals are a direct political interference in the internal management of a religious body. The Constitution of Armenia recognizes the exceptional role of the Armenian Apostolic Church in national life and enshrines the principle of separation between the Church and the state.

This dual framework is further reinforced by the 2007 Law on Church-State Relations, which clearly recognizes the Church’s right to self-governance. Critics argue that any attempt by a political party to preempt leadership changes or impose structural reforms violates those protections.

As noted, tensions have escalated significantly over the past year, and the government has become more hostile in its efforts to limit the Church’s independence.

More than 90% of the population identifies with the Armenian Apostolic Church, which has long served as a cornerstone of national identity, particularly during periods of foreign rule and genocide.

Historically, attempts to establish political control over the Church have been associated with external forces, including the Soviet authorities, who sought to limit religious influence. Critics warn that the current proposals repeat those earlier efforts, raising concerns about the future of religious freedom in the country.

If the ruling party secures an electoral victory, it can later claim a public mandate to implement proposed changes, including interference in Church governance, despite the lack of a clear public debate on the issue.

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