Armenia moves to dismantle Nagorno-Karabakh infrastructure, aligning with peace efforts

The Armenian government has intensified its efforts to dismantle the administrative and diplomatic infrastructure of the former Nagorno-Karabakh Republic. Recent state actions include the seizure of the region’s official mission in Yerevan and the systematic defunding of its former state apparatus, which previously operated on an annual budget of $100 million to $200 million.

Pashinyan Seeks Azerbaijan Peace This policy shift aligns with Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s objectives to finalize a peace agreement with Azerbaijan. The move follows the 2023 military collapse of the self-declared state. The administration is reportedly marginalizing displaced Karabakh populations, with some government-aligned rhetoric labeling refugees as deserters to suppress domestic opposition to the ongoing peace process. Domestic Instability Concerns

The Armenian

Political volatility remains high within Armenia as the government faces accusations of democratic backsliding. The targeted detention of activists also contributes to this tension.

The administration’s aggressive posture toward the Karabakh issue marks a significant departure from its 2018 reformist platform, creating internal security risks and deepening social polarization. These developments threaten to destabilize the domestic political environment as Yerevan seeks to normalize relations with Baku.

The actions highlight a fraught internal debate in Armenia, balancing pragmatic peace efforts with concerns over democratic norms and the welfare of displaced populations.