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July 31, 2024
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March 24, 2025
Hello Armagora, I am Razmik Panossian, Director of the Armenian Communities Department at the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation
Join me live on Armagora.am on Wednesday, March 26, at 7:00 PM Yerevan time for a discussion on the challenges of Armenian national identity, Armenia-Diaspora relations, and the findings of a poll conducted on these issues through the Armagora.am platform. No registration is required to ask questions. Share your questions, and let’s talk!
May 6, 2025
Armenian Quarter
How can we protect Jerusalem’s Armenian Quarter in the face of existential threats to its survival?
I think, encouraging greater involvement of the Armenian diaspora in state development and day-to-day affairs can be approached through a combination of policies, initiatives, and cultural strategies. The Armenian diaspora is large and diverse, with a strong connection to our homeland, making it a valuable resource for the country’s development.
In my opinion ,here are some strategies that Armenia could consider:
1.Strengthening Institutional Ties
2. Economic and Investment Incentives3.Cultural and Educational Initiatives …
Involvement does not need to be in person presence in the Motherland. Virtual English classes( I am currently volunteering my time), as English is the international language. Webinars, zoom, virtual interviews. It is all possible.
I think if the government creates more programs like ‘iGorts,’ it will provide more opportunities for diaspora representatives to contribute to the country’s development.
Currently, the Office of the High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs offers the following main programs for the Diaspora representatives: “iGorts,” “Diaspora Youth Ambassador,” and “Step Toward Home.” Additionally, they organize the annual “Global Armenian Summit” and the “Armenian National Youth Forum.”
I think the following programs could also be developed:
1) There are many world-renowned Armenian athletes in the Diaspora, with a large army of fans, who raise the Armenian flag. Why aren’t we more actively engaging them with Armenia? Now, many visit Armenia only through personal initiative to see relatives or friends, but our country should recognize and celebrate their role in representing Armenia internationally. Maybe a sports forum or a special program where these athletes could spend a week volunteering in Armenia, training local kids, could be organized.
2) A tourism program for Diaspora members of any age who were either not born in Armenia or have been living abroad for the last 10-15 years. This could include a one-week excursion around Armenia, offering cultural immersion, meetings with locals, and visits to different regions.
3) A cultural festival for Armenian painters, musicians, filmmakers, and other creatives in the Diaspora who contribute to Armenian culture. This festival could be held every 3-5 years to showcase their work and strengthen cultural ties.
4) Scholarships for young people from the Diaspora to study at Armenian universities or internships at top Armenian companies.
5)Business forums for entrepreneurs that focus on investment opportunities in Armenia.
These are just five ideas I’ve thought of. I believe that with proper research, a professional team could come up with many more innovative program ideas.