Returning as a guest on Poland’s TVP World news on 21 September, RSC Director Richard Giragosian provided commentary and analysis of Armenia’s 21 September independence anniversary, in an interview for the “World Talks” program with Klaudia Czerwińska.
The following were Giragosian’s comments and main points on Armenian independence day:
- For Armenia, independence has never been easy. In fact, Armenian independence is neither given nor guaranteed, rather, it is earned. But in order to ensure lasting statehood, Armenian independence must also be defended.
- This anniversary of Armenian independence is more significant than before for three reasons:
- this is the first anniversary of Armenian independence since the critical post-war breakthrough in diplomacy with Armenia's neighbors;
- this is an anniversary that coincides with Armenia's coming election year, which will also be pivotal as the country's third back-to-back genuinely free and fair election;
- and this anniversary may very well be the last time Russia is absent, as Russia remains overwhelmed and distracted by its failed invasion of Ukraine, further suggesting that Armenia will face an angry, vengeful and resurgent Russia intent on regaining its lost power and influence. - What comes next? Armenia will need to continue to deepen its democracy and strengthen its sovereignty, with independence also manifested through innovative and active foreign policy, bolster the institutions of democracy and forge resiliency.
- But Armenian independence is also a crucial challenge for the international community, as Armenia represents a test of small struggling democratic states in the face of threats of force and authoritarian aggression.