Media: Armenia's potential EU membership referendum unlikely Political strategy suggests

The prospect of Armenia holding a referendum on its application for European Union (EU) membership has stirred political discourse, but recent developments indicate it may remain a distant possibility.

Demands from opposition figures like Arman Babajanyan, Aram Sargsyan, Tigran Khzmalyan, Hovsep Khurshudyan for a referendum on EU membership reflect a push to gauge public sentiment and potentially align Armenia more closely with Western policies, Caliber.Az reports citing Armenian media.

Last week, hearings were conducted in the Armenian National Assembly (NA), reigniting discussions on Armenia's EU aspirations.

The media highlighted recent statements by Armenian parliamentary officials, including affirmations of the country's shared values with the EU and aspirations to join the union.

Despite these developments, the article suggests that the Armenian authorities are unlikely to proceed with a referendum, characterizing recent discussions as primarily a public relations effort. It underscores concerns about crossing geopolitical lines, particularly in relation to Russia, which historically holds significant influence in Armenia's foreign policy decisions.

"The authorities are hesitant to provoke a reaction from Russia and are strategically managing the discourse to bolster support from pro-Western segments of Armenian society ahead of upcoming elections".

The article indicates that the ruling "Civil Contract" party aims to strengthen its electoral position by appealing to pro-Western sentiments, crucial for forming a viable coalition government.

Furthermore, the article outlines the procedural hurdles involved in holding a referendum, emphasizing the need to gather significant public support through signatures and legislative approval.

“By the way, in order to hold a referendum [in Armenia], one must first collect 50 thousand signatures, and then enter the NA. And if the NA refuses, then 300 thousand signatures are needed to hold a referendum.”