Media: Armenian authorities preparing crackdown on opposition-linked business figures

Armenia’s ruling Civil Contract party is preparing to launch a series of actions targeting businessmen associated with the opposition, as well as others.

The measures could include sudden inspections and arrests in the coming days, Caliber.Az reports, citing Yerevan-based newspaper Iravunk.

The newspaper claims that Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has assured his political allies that the opposition will not have time to organise protest actions against the government in response to the expected crackdown.

​Armenia's political tensions in recent years stem from a combination of internal challenges and external pressures. Key factors contributing to the current political climate include:

The long-standing dispute over Karabakh has been a central source of tension. Following the 2020 war, Azerbaijan regained control over significant territories, leading to a voluntary relocation of the Karabakh Armenians. The dissolution of the self-declared "Republic of Artsakh" in 2024 further exacerbated domestic unrest and dissatisfaction with the government's handling of the situation.

​Internal political dynamics have been marked by significant unrest. In May 2024, Archbishop Bagrat Galstanyan led mass protests demanding Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's resignation over a controversial land transfer agreement with Azerbaijan. These demonstrations highlighted deep divisions within Armenian society and dissatisfaction with the government's policies. ​

Armenia's traditional alliance with Russia has come under strain. In 2024, Armenia froze its membership in the Russia-led Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO), citing the bloc's failure to ensure Armenia's security during conflicts with Azerbaijan. This move reflects a broader shift in Armenia's foreign policy and has led to increased tensions with Moscow. ​

In a significant geopolitical shift, Armenia initiated the process to join the European Union in early 2025. This decision marks a move away from Russian influence and has implications for Armenia's relationships with neighbouring countries, including Azerbaijan and Türkiye, as well as with Russia.

By Khagan Isayev