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CIVILNET

@civilnet.bsky.social
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A new brand of journalism about Armenia & the Caucasus.

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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 30/09/2026
CivilNet marked its 15th anniversary on September 18 at the Tufenkian Kharpert Restaurant in Yerevan. The event brought together ambassadors, journalists, representatives of civil society organizations and think tanks, as well as leaders and partners from Armenia’s business community.
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 28/09/2026
In this episode of Insights, Eric Hacopian examines the recent diplomatic tour of Artsakh organized by Azerbaijan and the controversy surrounding its Armenian cultural heritage.
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Why did Azerbaijan take diplomats to Artsakh?
YouTube video by CIVILNET
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 27/09/2026
In an exclusive interview, CivilNet’s Eric Hacopian speaks with Michael Kofman of the Carnegie Endowment about the Russia-Ukraine war, military adaptation, drone warfare, and the evolution of modern warfare.
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Russia, Ukraine and the future of warfare
YouTube video by CIVILNET
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 23/09/2026
📍 Armenia celebrates Independence Day. Thirty-five years ago on September 21, the country held a referendum where 99.5% of voters supported leaving the Soviet Union. 📍 Donate to CivilNet: civilnet.am/en/donate
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CivilNet celebrates 15th birthday as Armenia marks 35th Independence Day
YouTube video by CIVILNET
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 14/09/2026
CivilNet turns 15! CivilNet was established on Armenia’s Independence Day, with a mission to establish a one-of-its-kind independent media in the country.
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
The future of the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace agreement remains uncertain, but some elements of the process are likely to outlast it. CivilNet political commentator Eric Hacopian explains how TRIPP and other regional transport links could move forward even without a final agreement.
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What survives once the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace deal fails
YouTube video by CIVILNET
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 08/09/2026
Armenia’s government plans to tighten its citizenship rules by requiring applicants, including ethnic Armenians, to have actually lived in the country before becoming eligible for citizenship, Interior Minister Arpine Sargsyan told CivilNet in an interview on September 7.
civilnet.am
Armenia plans to require residency for citizenship, including for ethnic Armenians
By Siranush Adamyan Armenia’s government plans to tighten its citizenship rules by requiring applicants, including ethnic Armenians, to have actually lived...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 03/09/2026
Armenia is discussing possible Russian involvement in building Yerevan’s long-planned Ajapnyak metro station, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said on Thursday, as the government seeks to move ahead with a project that has faced repeated delays and sharply rising costs.
civilnet.am
Armenia discusses Ajapnyak metro construction with Russia, Pashinyan says
By Lia Avagyan Armenia is discussing possible Russian involvement in building Yerevan’s long-planned Ajapnyak metro station, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 21/08/2026
The Wool Opportunity
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 20/08/2026
TRIPP could legitimize a new type of blockade on Armenia
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 18/08/2026
The Armenian-American company launched the data center earlier this month, completing the first phase of a project that has attracted about $500 mn in investment. Read more on civilnet.am/en
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 17/08/2026
Firebird, an Armenian-American AI startup, launched a $500 million data center in Armenia, marking the first phase of a project that the company says could ultimately involve $4 billion in investments in the country.
civilnet.am
Armenia launches $500 million data center project: THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS
Firebird, an Armenian-American AI startup, launched a $500 million data center in Armenia, marking the first phase of a project that the company says could ultimately...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 30/07/2026
🛑 During the recent Armenian election campaign, identical texts appeared on dozens of Telegram channels within minutes of each other. 🔍 CivilNetCheck analyzed nearly 900 posts from 31 Telegram channels and identified three phases of the campaign.
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How CivilNetCheck tracked the "stolen election" narrative on Telegram
On the night of Armenia's parliamentary elections this June, Arman Abovyan, a candidate for the opposition Prosperous Armenia party said in...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 22/07/2026
Human rights lawyer Siranush Sahakyan said she has filed an application with the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) on behalf of the former Nagorno-Karabakh state minister and philanthropist Ruben Vardanyan.
civilnet.am
Ruben Vardanyan files case with European Court of Human Rights over Azerbaijan conviction
By Siranush Adamyan Human rights lawyer Siranush Sahakyan said she has filed an application with the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) on behalf of the former...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 21/07/2026
Armenia will appoint a state manager for AraratCement, one of the country's largest cement producers owned by jailed opposition businessman Gagik Tsarukyan, later this month after a court placed the company under temporary state management as part of an illicit asset forfeiture case.
civilnet.am
Minister says state to appoint manager for Tsarukyan's cement company this month
By Lia Avagyan Armenia will appoint a state manager for AraratCement, one of the country's largest cement producers owned by jailed opposition...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 02/07/2026
Outgoing National Assembly Speaker Alen Simonyan said on Thursday that he does not plan to retain his parliamentary mandate.
civilnet.am
Speaker Alen Simonyan confirms exit from parliament
Outgoing National Assembly Speaker Alen Simonyan said on Thursday that he does not plan to retain his parliamentary mandate. “I will not take the mandate, I will not come...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 01/07/2026
Armenia's planned mobile phone registration system will not involve the collection of citizens' personal data or enable surveillance, the government said on Tuesday, responding to concerns raised over the initiative.
civilnet.am
Government says IMEI registration system will not collect personal data
By Siranush Adamyan  Armenia's planned mobile phone registration system will not involve the collection of citizens' personal data or enable surveillance, the government...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 28/06/2026
Israel is set to hold a parliamentary vote on recognizing the Armenian Genocide after the government approved the measure on Sunday.
civilnet.am
Armenian Genocide recognition heads to Israeli parliament after government vote
By Alexander Pracht Israel is set to hold a parliamentary vote on recognizing the Armenian Genocide after the government approved the measure on...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 16/06/2026
This special edition of the CivilNet Podcast is part of the “Synergy on Air” series, produced through the Seizing Synergies project, a cross-border journalism initiative connecting independent media outlets across Armenia, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine.
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Rethinking journalism across Eastern Europe and the South Caucasus
YouTube video by CIVILNET
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 16/06/2026
Armenia’s Central Electoral Commission has confirmed the final results of the June 7 parliamentary election after a week of recounts and legal disputes, with the ruling Civil Contract party retaining a parliamentary majority.
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Special Report: Armenia Election Final Results Confirmed, Opposition Rejects Outcome
YouTube video by CIVILNET
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 08/06/2026
Political analyst and election expert Tigran Mughnetsian joins CivilNet to break down the results of Armenia’s June 7 parliamentary election. He examines the record voter turnout, the performance of the major political forces, and how the final vote shares translate into parliamentary seats.
civilnet.am
The numbers behind Armenia's election results
Political analyst and election expert Tigran Mughnetsian joins CivilNet to break down the results of Armenia’s June 7 parliamentary election. He examines the record voter...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 08/06/2026
Armenia’s Central Election Commission has announced the preliminary results of Sunday’s parliamentary election after counting votes at all 2,005 polling stations across the country, with the figures still subject to change as parties may appeal for recounts at some stations until 11 a.m. Tuesday.
civilnet.am
Civil Contract wins as Prosperous Armenia's threshold result could alter seat distribution
Armenia’s Central Election Commission has announced the preliminary results of Sunday’s parliamentary election after counting votes at all 2,005 polling stations across the country,...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 07/06/2026
Final voter turnout in Armenia’s parliamentary election on Sunday stands at 58.97%, the Central Electoral Commission reported.
civilnet.am
Armenia reports 59% turnout in parliamentary election, highest since 2017
Final voter turnout in Armenia’s parliamentary election on Sunday stands at 58.97%, the Central Electoral Commission reported. Polling stations closed at 8:00 p.m. local time,...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 07/06/2026
The Central Electoral Commission said that by 11:00 a.m., 362,657 voters had cast ballots, representing 14.48% of registered voters. In the 2021 parliamentary election, turnout at the same point stood at 316,291 voters, or 12.2 percent.
civilnet.am
Election update 12:30 pm: Turnout rises above 2021 levels
By Siranush Adamyan Armenians headed to the polls on Sunday in a closely watched parliamentary election, with turnout running ahead of the pace recorded in the previous...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 07/06/2026
On June 7, Armenian citizens will cast their ballots and answer a fundamental question: what kind of Armenia do they want to see over the next five years?
civilnet.am
Elections in Armenia: A Guide to What’s at Stake
On June 7, Armenian citizens will cast their ballots and answer a fundamental question: what kind of Armenia do they want to see over the next five years?...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 29/05/2026
As U.S. Secretary of State Rubio visits Armenia ahead of the country’s parliamentary election, Eric Hacopian examines the growing internationalization of Armenia’s political landscape. He stresses that Armenia’s democracy was built by the Armenian people and can only be sustained by them.
civilnet.am
Rubio’s Armenia visit and the battle over democracy
As U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio visits Armenia ahead of the country’s parliamentary election, Insights host Eric Hacopian examines the growing internationalization...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 26/05/2026
A European security organization’s election monitoring body has published its interim report on Armenia’s upcoming parliamentary elections, warning that the 7 June vote is taking place in a highly polarized political environment shaped by ongoing regional and domestic tensions.
civilnet.am
OSCE report warns of highly polarized environment ahead of Armenia elections
A European security organization’s election monitoring body has published...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 25/05/2026
Former Artsakh State Minister and philanthropist Ruben Vardanyan has delivered a sharply worded audio message from a prison in Baku, criticizing Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and warning that Armenia risks becoming “a Turkish vilayet” if it fails to change course.
civilnet.am
Ruben Vardanyan criticizes Pashinyan, calls on Armenians to reject “immoral” military parade
By Siranush Adamyan Former Artsakh State Minister and philanthropist Ruben Vardanyan has delivered a sharply...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 22/05/2026
As Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev once again threatens Armenia with war while presenting himself internationally as a supporter of peace, Insights host Eric Hacopian examines why the threat of renewed conflict remains central to Baku’s political strategy.
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Aliyev once again threatens Armenia with war
YouTube video by CIVILNET
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 21/05/2026
Global wine experts gather in Armenia for Concours Mondial de Bruxelles competition
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 20/05/2026
An extensive report by the exiled Russian investigative outlet The Insider, published on Tuesday, revealed what the journalists believe to be Russia's intelligence network in Armenia.
civilnet.am
Investigative report reveals Russia’s network of secret operatives in Armenia
An extensive report by the exiled Russian investigative outlet The Insider, published...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 18/05/2026
A group of international human rights advocates has nominated Ruben Vardanyan for the 2026 Václav Havel Human Rights Prize, citing his humanitarian work and advocacy for Nagorno-Karabakh Armenians.
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Global human rights activists nominate Ruben Vardanyan for Václav Havel award
By Paul Vartan Sookiasian  A group of international human rights...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 16/05/2026
Armenia’s annual “Museum Night”: PHOTO STORY One of the country’s most beloved cultural events, the annual “Museum Night “ is taking place today, Saturday, May 16. Despite the name, it is an all day event, with participating museums open free of charge all day until midnight.
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 15/05/2026
With less than a month until Armenia’s parliamentary election, the campaign has entered a volatile phase marked by escalating political rhetoric. On Insights, host Eric Hacopian identifies potential violations of campaign spending limits by the leading parties.
civilnet.am
How political distraction became campaign strategy
With less than a month until Armenia’s parliamentary election, the campaign has entered a volatile phase marked by escalating political rhetoric. On Insights, host Eric...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 14/05/2026
Armenia’s Central Election Commission has closed the registration window for political forces seeking to participate in the parliamentary elections scheduled for June 7, formally approving all 19 parties and alliances that submitted bids.
civilnet.am
Who is who in Armenia’s 2026 elections? | CIVILNET
By Alexander Pracht Armenia’s Central Election Commission has closed the registration window for political forces seeking to participate in the parliamentary elections...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 13/05/2026
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) continues to visit Armenian detainees held in Azerbaijan despite the closure of its office in Baku last year, maintaining one of the few remaining humanitarian channels between Armenia and Azerbaijan.
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ICRC says visits to Armenian detainees in Azerbaijan continue despite Baku office closure | CIVILNET
By Ani Paitjan The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) continues to visit Armenian detainees held in Azerbaijan despite the closure of its office...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 11/05/2026
Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that Armenia’s aspirations to join the European Union could lead to consequences similar to those seen in Ukraine, drawing a direct link between EU integration efforts and the outbreak of conflict there.
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Putin warns Armenia’s EU pivot could mirror Ukraine scenario | CIVILNET
By Alexander Pracht Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that Armenia’s aspirations to join the European Union could lead to consequences similar to those seen...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 08/05/2026
Armenia’s official campaign period for the 2026 parliamentary elections began on Friday, with 19 political forces entering the race, including 17 parties and two alliances.
civilnet.am
Armenia’s election campaign officially begins | CIVILNET
By Siranush Adamyan Armenia’s official campaign period for the 2026 parliamentary elections began on Friday, with 19 political forces entering the race, including 17 parties...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 30/04/2026
Many new media outlets have sprung up since the 2018 “Velvet Revolution” and independent news sites such as Civilnet.am, hetq.am, Factor.am and Azatutyun.am are thriving and fulfilling an independent watchdog role that is essential in a democracy.
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Armenia’s press freedom score drops amid broader global decline | CIVILNET
By Alexander Pracht Armenia ranked 50th out of 180 countries in the latest World Press...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 28/04/2026
⛰️ Ararat
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 28/04/2026
As Armenia rolls out the first phase of its consequential Universal Health Insurance system, many questions remain about how it works and what people should expect. Dr. Shant Shekherdimian breaks down what the program’s first months have revealed about the reform’s trajectory.
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Armenia’s new Universal Health Insurance program explained | CIVILNET
As Armenia rolls out the first phase of its consequential Universal Health Insurance system, one that affects every citizen, many questions remain about how it works and what...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 27/04/2026
From the roots of winemaking in the Armenian Highlands to the unique challenges of growing grapes at high altitude,Vahe and Aimee Keushguerian share their journey of preserving tradition while pushing the boundaries of Armenian wine on the international stage.
civilnet.am
It Takes Generations: Keushguerians and the Wine Trade | CIVILNET
From the roots of winemaking in the Armenian Highlands to the unique challenges of growing grapes at high altitude,Vahe and Aimee Keushguerian share their journey of...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 22/04/2026
An election monitoring mission said attendance at a concert in Gyumri by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s band last Sunday was organized through administrative pressure, while government officials rejected the allegation, according to RFE/RL’s Armenian Service.
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Election observer group says attendance at Gyumri concert was organized | CIVILNET
By Lia Avagyan An election monitoring mission said attendance at a concert in Gyumri by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s band last Sunday was organized through...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 20/04/2026
Yerevan’s planned metro expansion will require an estimated $287 million in investment, up sharply from an initial $50 million projection in 2022, senior City Hall official Anetta Babayan announced Monday.
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Yerevan metro expansion cost climbs to $287m | CIVILNET
By Alexander Pracht Yerevan’s planned metro expansion will require an estimated $287 million in investment, up sharply from an initial $50 million projection in 2022, senior...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 17/04/2026
France's Europe Minister: Armenia doesn't have to choose between EU and Russia
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 15/04/2026
🇫🇷 Today, France’s Minister Delegate for European Affairs, Benjamin Haddad, visited CivilNet. He was accompanied by Ambassador Olivier Decottignies. 👉 The full interview with the minister will follow soon.
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 13/04/2026
Russia may restrict the ability of the Proshyan Brandy Factory, one of Armenia’s biggest producers, to do business in the country. Brandy is one of Armenia’s main exports.
civilnet.am
453,000 tourists came to Armenia in first quarter of 2026: THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS | CIVILNET
Russia may restrict the ability of the Proshyan Brandy Factory, one of Armenia’s biggest producers, to do business in the country. Brandy is one of Armenia’s main...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 08/04/2026
Major global travel platforms are profiting from Azerbaijani government-sanctioned tours to Nagorno-Karabakh, a region that was ethnically cleansed just two years ago.
civilnet.am
Leading travel platforms profit from tours of ethnically cleansed Karabakh | CIVILNET
By Paul Vartan SookiasianMajor global travel platforms are profiting from Azerbaijani government-sanctioned tours to Nagorno-Karabakh, a region that was ethnically...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 01/04/2026
The film, Our Path to Independence, directed by Tigran Paskevichyan and produced on commission by Public Television of Armenia, will not be publicly screened in any format following the ruling.
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Armenian court bans screening of film on Armenia’s independence movement - CIVILNET
By Hasmik Hovhannisyan A Yerevan court has banned the screening and distribution of a film about Armenia’s independence movement, siding with a lawsuit filed by the country’s public broadcaster. The f...
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CIVILNET @civilnet.bsky.social · 31/03/2026
A Yerevan court has banned the screening and distribution of a film about Armenia’s independence movement, siding with a lawsuit filed by the country’s public broadcaster.
civilnet.am
Armenian court bans screening of film on Armenia’s independence movement - CIVILNET
By Hasmik Hovhannisyan A Yerevan court has banned the screening and distribution of a film about Armenia’s independence movement, siding with a lawsuit filed by the country’s public broadcaster. The f...
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