CONCEPT ON

ARMENIA-DIASPORA

PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION 146

CHAPTER 1DIASPORA DEVELOPMENTS: ARMENIA-DIASPORAPARTNERSHIP FROM 1992-2008 148

CHAPTER 2POLICY ON ARMENIA-DIASPORA PARTNERSHIPDEVELOPMENT 156

CHAPTER 3BASIC INSTRUMENTS OF ARMENIA-DIASPORA PARTNERSHIP 172

CHAPTER 4MAINSTREAMING OF ARMENIA-DIASPORAPARTNERSHIP POLICY 185

CHAPTER 5MONITORING AND EVALUATION SYSTEM 198

ABBREVIATIONS 200

INTRODUCTION

1. The concept paper on the development of Armenia-Diaspora cooperation (hereinafter the Concept)

establishes the principles, goals, priorities, objectives and expected outcomes of the National Policy on the

development of Armenia-Diaspora cooperation. The National Policy on Armenia-Diaspora cooperation is a sum

total of legal, economic, diplomatic, educational, cultural, information and executive relations aimed at fulfilling

the objectives of preservation of the Armenian identity and ensuring a structured participation of the Diaspora in

addressing the issues of national significance.

2. The National Policy on Armenia-Diaspora partnership development is implemented under the

supervision of the President of the Republic of Armenia, with the support of public administration and local self-

governance bodies, as well as the NGO sector.

3. The concept paper includes the list of state agencies responsible for the implementation of Armenia-

Dispora Partnership, the scope of their responsibilities and functions, as well as mechanisms of their effective

interaction and coordination.

4. The concept paper defines the key instruments of the Policy and human resource development

priorities in terms of the implementation thereof, along with infomration management requirements. It outlines

the principles and the mechanisms of cooperation with Diaspora organizations and the role of the civil society in

the development of Armenia-Diaspora cooperation.

5. Further, the concept paper highlights the key aspects of the National Policy on the development of

Armenia-Diaspora cooperation, mainly in regards to the public administratio nsystem and sectors of the

economy, presents mechanisms of harmonization with other national development policies. It also details a

monitoring and evaluation system for the implementation of the Policy.

6. The concept paper is based on the Constitution of the Republic of Armenia, international conventions

and agreements to which the RA is a signatory and the principles, national laws and regulations and international

law. It is in compliance with the RA National Security Strategy, the political programme of the RA President and

the programmes of the RA Government.

7. The key premise of the concept paper is the unity of the Armenian nation in the name of national goals

and priorities and the well-being of all Armenians, the development of the Republic of Armenia and Nagorno

Karabakh Republic, the unification of all Armenians in the world and the creation of a national state.

8. New agencies proposed to be established in the concept paper, such as the National Council - a body

that represents the Diaspora, will be established following broad consultations and in a gradual and scheduled

manner, so as not to disrupt the operations of other stakeholders and, ultimately, effectively serve their purpose.

CHAPTER 1DIASPORA DEVELOPMENTS: ARMENIA-DIASPORA PARTNERSHIP FROM 1992-2008

1.1. The Armenian Diaspora

9. The modern Armenian Diaspora (hereinafter the Diaspora) comprises Armenian communities outside

the borders of the Republic of Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh Republic. There are over ten million Armenians

worldwide and only one third of them live in the Republic of Armenia and the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic.

10. The history of the Diaspora dates back to the early middle Ages. Following emigration and deportation,

Armenian communities were established in a number of countries, especially in Europe, Middle East and the

Americas. The emigration of Armenians was caused by three major factors, political, economic and religious.

11. Following mass killings of Armenians during the rule of Abdul Hamid II at the end of the 19 th century

(1894-1896) and the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923 committed by the authorities of the Ottoman Empire

(which took lives of more than 2 million Armenians), hundreds of thousands were displaced from their homes,

joining Armenian communities in Syria, Lebanon, France, Bulgaria, USA, Egypt, Georgia, Greece, Argentina and

establishing new ones all over the world.

There are big Armenian communities in Russia, Iran, Georgia, and Turkey. Since 1920 the Armenian

communities outside Armenia have became commonly known as the ‘Armenian Diaspora’.

12. The World War II transformed the Diaspora, and mass repatriation started. The Soviet government

organized a mass immigration of Armenians to the Soviet Republic of Armenia; first in 1921-1937, then in 1946-

1948 and the 1960s. Parallel to the global migration flows of the 1950-70s and later, following the mass mass

killings, murders and persecution organized by the Azerbaijani authorities in 1988, the local Armenian population

(around 500,000 people) were forced to leave their homes. Some Armenians from Azerbaijan settled in Armenia

and Nagorno-Karabakh Republic, while many others emigrated to foreign countries, specifically to the Russian

Federation. The Diaspora got many new members in the 1990s due to the mass emigration from the Republic of

Armenia, mainly due to socio-economic hardships, the blockade, the energy crisis, unemployment, low living

standards, tension around the Nagorno Karabakh conflict, etc. Hundreds of thousands of emigrants settled in

Russia, the USA and various European countries. Nowadays, Armenians live in more than 120 countries around

the world.

13. Over years, one of the major goals of the Armenian Diaspora has been the preservation of the

Armenian identity under the political, economic and cultural influence of other countries. There are several

prerequisites for the preservation of Armenian-ness, such as the common and shared national, educational,

religious and cultural activities, the unification and self-fulfillment in Armenian communities and national

institutions. The foundations of active Armenian communities anywhere in the world are the Armenian Church,

Armenian schools and various Armenian organizations.

14. The Armenian Apostolic Church with its Holy Sees, the All-Armenian Catholicosate, the See of Cilicia,

the Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem and the Armenian Patriarchate of Constantinople have played a historic

role in the preservation of the Armenian identity in the Diaspora, as well as in ensuring adequate rights for

Armenians. Armenian Catolic Church and Evangelical Church, the Mkhitarist Congregation, Pan-Armenian

structures and parties: the Armenian Revolutionary Federation, Ramkavar Liberal Party, Social Democrat

Hunchakyan Party, various unions, all-Armenian structures and organizations, among those Armenian General

Benevolent Union (AGBU), as well as Hamazgayin Armenian Educational and Cultural Society, Galouste

Gulbenkian Foundation (since 1953 acts as a portugese independent, legal entity), Armenian Relief Society,

Homenetmen, Tekeyan Cultural Association, New Generation Cultural Union, United Armenian Fund, Fund for

Armenian Relief, Lincy Foundation, compatriotic unions, Armenian studies’ centres and departments, the

Diasporan media, as well as prominent Armenian individuals and public figures have been of primary importance

in the development of Armenia-Diaspora partnership. After the collapse of the Soviet Union a whole new set of

national organizations and unions were establised across CIS, among those, the World Armenian Congress, the

Union of Armenians of Russia and the Union of Armenians in Ukraine with their networks.

15. One of the key goals of Diaspora organizations is the recognition of the Armenian Genocide, in which a

significant role belongs to Hay Dat committees, Armenian Assembly of America, Armenian National Committee of

America and all other national organizations. The long-term and consistent activities of these organizations and

their cooperation with the Republic of Armenia have greatly contributed to the recognition of the Armenian

Genocide and its condemnation by parliaments of more than 20 countries.

16. There are various public, charitable, cultural, educational, youth, sport, women’s, professional and

other organizations in almost all Diaspora communities. However, as of today, there are no representative bodies

that could act on behalf of the Diaspora as a whole. Attempts to create such a body and to coordinate the

activities of various Diaspora organizations have been limited and have not yielded any significant results.

17. Not all Armenians speak the official language of the state in the newly formed Diaspora communities,

which impedes their integration into the local society of the given country. Disagreements between some

Diaspora organizations have long hindered the unification of the Diaspora.

18. After the Genocide, a large number of Armenians were forced to convert to other religionsl their

descendents, however, still remember their Armenian roots. At the same time, it takes a social environment to

shape a national identity, and its manifestations are unique and specific in each individual case.

19. The priorities of the Diaspora include the preservation of the Armenian identity, self-organization,

creation of an atmosphere of mutual trust, integration into social, cultural, political and civic life of the countries

of residence, improvement of standards of living, professional cooperation and the use of the national potential

for the development of the homeland and national unification.

20. Public perception of the Diaspora in Armenia often differs from the way the Diaspora sees itself.

Although Armenian communities in different countries have their unique features informed by political, socio-

economic, spiritual and cultural milieu of the given country, Diaspora is often perceived as a homogenious entity.

21. Armenians living in Armenia and the Diaspora do not know each other well, as they have lived and

been brought up in different social settings. Consequently, the understanding of partnership priorities both in

Armenia and various communities of the Diaspora is different.

1.2. Armenia-Diaspora Partnership Assesment, Key Aspects and Major Results

22. Strong and comprehensive relations with Armenia help guarantee strong and sound Diaspora; these

relations reached a qualitatively new level after 1991 independence. Since 1991, Armenia-Diaspora partnership

has mainly developed in several limited areas such as foreign policy support, various initiatives launched by

educational, cultural, sport and information organizations, Armenian churches, pan-Armenian structures,

Diaspora organizations and individuals.

23. Established in 1992, “Hayastan” All-Armenian Fund, (established pursuant to the Decree of the

President of the Republic of Armenia NH-80 of March 3, 1992- “On the establishment of ‘Hayastan’ All-Armenian

Fund”) brought together many Diaspora Armenians, whose donations have been directed towards the

strengthening of the newly created Nagorno Karabakh Republic and its socio-economic development, including

the reconstruction and construction of Goris-Stepanakert and “North-South” highways, infrastructure networks,

schools and cultural centres, etc.

24. For the discussion of pan-Armenian issues “Armenia-Diaspora” pan-Armenian conferences were held

in Yereven in 1992, 2002 and 2006; moreover, for the last ten years pan-Armenian games, festivals entitled “One

nation, one culture”, writers’ youth assemblies, pan-Armenian conferences on Armenian studies and professional

affiliation, etc. have also been organized. The Diaspora provided financial and moral assistance to Armenia,

victims of the earthquake and war, refugees. In particular, the Lincy Foundation made a significant contribution

to the development of Armenia's infrastructure, renovation of educational and cultural institutions, as well as to

the earthquake zone recovery. Diaspora businessmen became more actively interested in making investments in

Armenia. Conducive legal framework and the creation of the free market economy provided a favourable setting

for increased investments and the involvement of Diaspora businessmen in Armenia's economy.

25. Armenian state officials regularly met with their compatriots and discussed issues related to the

Republic of Armenia and the Armenian nation both in Armenia and in the framework of official visits to foreign

countries.

26. The policy implemented by the government of the Republic of Armenia helped establish the

foundations of Armenia-Diaspora partnership.

27. “Hayastan”All-Armenian Fund, “Armenia-Diaspora” Conferences, meetings of businessmen, pan-

Armenian festivals and games, professional conferences, conferences on issues of repatriation as well as the

settlement of hundreds of Diaspora Armenians in the Homeland, along with other steps, have contributed to

streamlining the partnership between the Republic of Armenia, Nagorno Karabakh and the Diaspora.

1.3. Legal Frameform for Armenia-Diaspora Partnership Development

28. The policy on Armenia-Diaspora partnership development is based on provisions, norms and principles

of the Constitution of the Republic of Armenia, national legislation and Armenia's international legal

commitments.29. By regaining its independent statehood and reaffirming her commitment to universal values, the

Armenian nation constitutionally stipulated the fundamental principles and pan-national aspirations of the Armenian statehood engraved in the Declaration on Independence of Armenia, has realized the sacred commandments of its freedom-loving ancestors on the restoration of an independent state, dedication to the strengthening and prosperity of the Homeland, and has fulfilled the responsibility of ensuring freedom for the generations to come (the Constitution of the Republic of Armenia was adopted on July 5, 1995 (entered into forced as of July 13, 1995)). On November 27, 2005 the constitutional reform package was adopted by popular referendum (entered into forced as of December 5, 2005)).

30. Armenia-Diaspora partnership is based on the principles of equality, transparency and publicity. The

Republic of Armenia recognizes the rights of every individual to freedom of thought, conscience and religion,

freedom of expression and the right to preserve the national and ethnic identity, as well as guarantees the

freedom of media.

31. The relations of state bodies of the Republic of Armenia with the community institutions and

individuals take place within the framework of norms and principles of the international law and in accordance

with the principle of establishing friendly relations with all states.

32. Historical and cultural monuments, as well as other cultural values enjoy care and protection of the

Republic of Armenia. In accordance with the norms and principles of the international law the Republic of

Armenia is committed to protecting Armenian historical and cultural values in other countries and the

development of Armenian educational and cultural life.

33. According to the legislation of RA, the right to citizenship is granted not only to children of Armenian

nationals, but it also to all individuals of Armenian origin who may acquire Armenian and dual citizenship through

a simplified procedure.

34. Within the framework of the National Security Strategy of the Republic of Armenia on ensuring the

security of the state, society and individual, and sustainable development of the state political system (RA

President Decree NH-37-N of February 7, 2007 «On the Ratification of the National Security Strategy of the

Republic of Armenia»), the Republic of Armenia considers preservation of Armenian identity as a fundamental

value of the national security and is committed to the protection and development of the Armenian national

identity both in Armenia and the Diaspora. Preservation of Armenianness implies the development of Armenian

language and literature, Armenian culture, history and Armenian studies, etc. as factors ensuring security and

continuity of the national spiritual heritage.

35. The Republic of Armenia considers the weakening of the national identity of the Diaspora and its

assimilation as a threat to the Armenia-Diaspora partnership and the national security of the Republic of

Armenia. The strategy of the Armenia-Diaspora partnership prioritizes the efforts of the Armenian state against

assimilation of the Diaspora and for the protection of the cultural and language identity.

36. The principles of Armenia-Diaspora partnership development are stipulated in the political programme

of the President of the Republic of Armenia (Election program of the President of the Republic of Armenia Serzh

Sargsyan, see at http://www. president.am/library/program/arm), which refers to the common Armenian

potential as a competitive advantage of the Republic of Armenia in the globalized world. The programme

considers the national unity of the Armenian nation as the main prerequisite for the second-generation reforms

and the spiritual unity of the Armenian nation as the fundamental guarantee for the development of the

Armenian statehood. The programme of the President of the Republic of Armenia prioritizes national

cooperation and an atmosphere of trust, and recognizes the Republic of Armenia as the gravity centre of

political, cultural and economic interests of Armenians worldwide, while at the same time guaranteeing the

involvement of the Diaspora into the elaboration and implementation of national programmes.

37. The Government of the Republic of Armenia attaches great significance to the protection of the rights

of Armenians in foreign countries, prioritizes broader participation in the resolution of issues related to

educational institutions of the Diaspora, such as the development of curricula and instruction manuals and

textbooks, training of Diaspora teachers in Armenia, broadening the broadcasting of Armenian Public TV

programs, improving the quality and the content of TV programmes through development of new online

educational and entertainment programmes.

38. The Government of the Republic of Armenia considers the Diaspora a reliable and effective bridge for

global integration; therefore, it is important to create sustainable and effective mechanisms to involve the

Diaspora potential in Armenia's national life and improve the performance of national institutions with Diaspora

support. It is envisaged to work out mechanisms for the assessement of the existing potential of the Diaspora in

scientific, educational, economic, cultural and other spheres, and develop a unified database. The Government of

the Republic of Armenia is committed to developing and introducing programmes promoting national

consolidation, repatriation, mutual interaction via electronic media in the framework of various national

programmes; development of national legislation to facilitate repatriation is also a priority.

39. The Government of the Republic of Armenia plans the registration of cultural values both on the

territory of the Republic of Armenia and abroad, involvement of Diaspora artists in the cultural life of the

Republic of Armenia and elaboration and implementation of scientific projects to address current and future

issues and challenges facing the nation.

CHAPTER 2POLICY ON ARMENIA-DIASPORA PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

2.1. Structured policy on the Armenia-Diaspora partnership development

40. In the 21st century, external and domestic challenges facing Armenia and the Diaspora require a new

quality, format and content of Armenia – Diaspora partnership based on human, cultural and social capital, as

well as on pillars of complete social integration and competitiveness.

41. The Government of the Republic of Armenia ensures effective and systematic implementation of the

policy on Armenia-Diaspora partnership by completing and coordinating the elements of Armenia-Diaspora

partnership through dialogs and joint discussions; in doing so, the government is committed to:

a. implementation of international legal norms in the protection of fundamental human rights, freedoms

and vital interests,

b. ensuring the balanced application of the main provisions of Armenia-Diaspora partnership policy, i.e.

pan-Armenian activities, improvement of legislation on specific issues of Armenia-Diaspora partnership,

introduction and application of procedures, cooperation of Armenian and Diaspora companies, development of

Armenian studies and information management on Armenia-Diaspora partnership,

c. ensuring effective and structured functioning of bodies responsible for the implementation of the policy

on Armenia-Diaspora partnership development, mainstreaming the policy in the national development strategies

and programmes, human resource development, effective oversight and coordination;

d. ensuring regular review of the Policy in cooperation with the Diaspora organizations, as well as its

harmonisation with other national priorities and monitoring, evaluation and analysis of outcomes and results.

e. breaking the stereotypes of the Armenian Diaspora and forming an accurate image of an Armenian living

in various historical, geopolitical and social conditions through regular needs assessment, human resource

development and research.

2.2 Key Principles and Goals of the National Policy on Armenia-Diaspora Partnership Development

42. Diaspora communities operate in diverse geopolitical and social environments; therefore, mentality,

spirituality, cultural, socio-economic and political views of Armenians living in different parts of the world are also

different. The Armenia-Diaspora partnership Policy should develop solutions that are tailor-made to the needs of

different Armenian communities and enable the engagement of their potential.

43. Armenians of both Armenia and the Diaspora come from the same historical and cultural roots and

empower each other; challenges facing Armenia also threaten the Diaspora, whereas Diaspora issues are of

concern to Armenia. The strength of Armenian people is the collective strength of all Armenians. Therefore,

Armenia-Diaspora partnership should be aimed at the development and strengthening of Armenia and the

Diaspora, increasing and strengthening Armenian capacities all over the world.

44. The cultural, educational, linguistic, religious, political and ideological diversity of the Diaspora is the

strength of all Armenians, an important resource for the Republic of Armenia that provides endless opportunities

for sustainable development of Armenia and the Diaspora. Hence, Armenia-Diaspora partnership is based on

principles of mutual assistance, understanding, and transparency of actions, cooperation and humanity and shall

not tolerate any cultural, linguistic, religious and political discrimination.

45. Armenia has always been the Homeland and the haven for all Armenians. Therefore, the independent

statehood of Armenia, her security and protection of the political, economic, social, cultural and spiritual

potential should be the axis of the Armenia-Diaspora partnership development. Adequate and full utilization of

the potential of all Armenians will make all Armenians stronger; unity and consolidation should happen beyond

national tragedies and disasters. The outcome of the Armenia-centered development of Armenia-Diaspora

partnership has to be the guarantee of the security of the Republic of Armenia, peaceful and fair settlement of

Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, the international recognition and condemnation of the Armenian genocide,

prevention of Diaspora assimilation and establishment of a powerful Armenia.The home of Armenians is the

world, and Armenia is the hearth of it.

46. Armenia-Diaspora partnership is aimed at the protection of each and every Armenian’s rights to

language, culture, religion, education in the Homeland and foreign countries within the framework of

international law, preservation of the Armenian identity, as well as the strengthening of ties between Armenia

and the Diaspora. The policy drafting, implementation, systemization and evaluation of the resultls on Armenia-

Diaspora partnersip development supports the creation of the Armenian world.

2.3 Objectives and Priorities

47. Armenia-Diaspora partnership development is aimed at the development and strengthening of an

Armenian individual, Diaspora communities and Armenian statehood and global competitiveness of values they

create.

48. The main issues of Armenia-Diaspora partnership development aimed at the development of

Armenians living both in Armenia and in other countries should be to:

a. support the creation of an Armenian environment, preserve and strengthen the national identity in the

Armenian communities, prevent assimilation, longevity of the nation and language;

b.help identify and unify the professional potential of the Diaspora and involve it in the development of

both Armenia and the Diaspora; create pan-Armenian network and professional groups;

c. assist in the complete integration in the political, cultural and economic life of the country of residence

or citizenship, not to the detriment of the national identity;

d.support the establishment and strenghtening of the Armenian national identity among Armenians of

different religions and language backgrounds, their return to Armenian roots,

e. elaborate strategic regional programs taking into consideration peculiarities of every region;

f. assist in the establishment and development of a common information field, elaborate and implement

pan-Armenian projects with Diaspora organizations,

g.design projects promoting national consolidation and repatriation, assist in the strengthening of the

Armenian statehood. Repatriation is one of the most vivid expressions of every Armenian’s vital and spiritual

links with the Homeland, which has to be implemented through continuous living and working in the Homeland,

as well as through implementation of short-term projects (cultural, educational, and social) and settling in the

Homeland,

h.assist in the consolidation of Armenian communities,

i. assist in the development of Armenian educational institutions, expansion of Sunday schools network,

promote Armenian studies centers and departments abroad and drafting separate projects.

49. The main objectives of Armenia-Diaspora partnership aimed at the development of the Diaspora

communities are to:

a. Assist in the formation and development of a favourable environment for the preservation of national

identity and development of Armenian communities in all countries of residence,

b.Assist in the unification of the Diaspora communities around the Armenian identity, creation of

community self-governing structures, strengthening their links with Armenia,

c. Assist in the inclusion of provisions reinforcing the protection of the Diaspora community interests into

documents regulating bilateral relations of the Republic of Armenia (agreements, contracts),

d.Help every Armenian visit Armenia, especially in the framework of pilgrimage trips of the Diaspora youth

to the Homeland.

e. Assist in the preservation, development and passing through generations the Armenian spirit, national

culture and traditions.

f. Assist in the creation of a pan-Armenian electronic database, introduce distance learning systems,

arrange video-conferences, develop Armenian studies, dissemine information and feedback.

50. The main objectives of Armenia-Diaspora partnership aimed at the development of Armenian

statehood are:

a. Assist in the establishment and reinforcement of multilateral relations through development of public

diplomacy and lobbying activities in the Diaspora,

b.Assist in the formation of a favorable political, economic, cultural, legal and spiritual environment for the

effective participation of the Diaspora Armenians in the strengthening of Armenian stathood and resolution of

national issues,

c. Consolidate political, economic, intellectual, educational, scientific, spiritual, cultural, professional

abilities and efforts of Armenia and the Diaspora aimed at further international recognition of Armenian

Genocide, peaceful and fair settlement of the Nagorno-Karabagh conflict, formulation and resolution of problems

of national importance.

2.4 Government Stakeholders

51. The international experience with management of relations between the state and communities

suggests a number of structural solutions aimed at separation and streamlining of fuctions.

52. The selection of the effective political governance model of Armenia-Diaspora partnership is informed

by the experience, professional capacities of the bodies involved, national and international legal systems,

financial capacities and other factors.

53. For the purposes of National Policy on Armenia-Diaspora partnership development, monitoring and

coordination of its implementation, improvement of the legislation, management of the information on Armenia-

Diaspora partnership, involvement of civil society, pan-Armenian and Diaspora organizations in the partnership

development, the socio-economic, educational and cultural functions are separated from functions pertaining to

specific aspects of such partnership, as well as in terms of coordination functions.

54. In order to ensure comprehensive, consistent and successful implementation of the Policy, effective

October 1, 2008 the Ministry of Diaspora was established (on June 17, 2008, the RA National Assembly adopted a

law “On the structure of the Government of the Republic of Armenia”). In 1964, the Committee for Cultural

Relations with Diaspora Armenians was established in Soviet Armenia; in 1998 an Executive Secretary for

Diaspora; the State Committee for Diaspora Relations operated within the system of the Ministry of Foreign

Affairs from April to October, 2008.

55 The Ministry of Diaspora of the Republic of Armenia is a body of the executive power that elaborates

and implements the policy of the Republic of Armenia on the strengthening of Armenia-Diaspora relations,

development of their partnership, identification of Diaspora potential, promotion of repatriation, cooperation

with various state and public structures, and performs other functions provided for by relevant laws and

regulations, as well as cooperates with diplomatic services within the framework of Armenia-Diaspora

partnership.

56. The main functions of the Ministry particularly include:

a. development of the National Policy on Armenia-Diaspora partnership development and making

proposals to the President and the Government of the Republic of Armenia,

b. development of a legal framework for the Armenia-Diaspora Partnership Development, review of law

application practice related to the activities of the Ministry and drafting of legal provisions related to the rights of

Diaspora Armenians, their residence, dual citizenship, legal and civil relations, repatriation support projects,

communication opportunities, etc,

c. design and implementation of targeted pan-Armenian projects on Armenia-Diaspora Partnership

Development, promotion of the image of Armenia and the Armenian nation, joint events in Armenia and the

Diaspora, facilitation of festivals, assemblies, conferences and symposia in collaboration with relevant public

administration bodies and local administrations, for the purposes of strengthening Armenia-Diaspora ties in

cultural, educational, spiritual, economic, sport, and other areas,

d. assistance in the establishment and development of relations between educational, cultural, sport and

other organizations and individuals in Armenia and the Diaspora, arrangement of business trips for professionals

as well as organizations of the state and public initiatives by the Republic of Armenia, involvement of Diaspora

artists, scientists, entrepreneurs, women and youth in the discussions, activities and projectsof state and pan -

Armenian importance,

e. participation in the elaboration of strategy on Armenian education and upbringing, promote the

implementation of pan-Armenian educational programs, assistance in the development of relevant projects and

publication of textbooks, facilitate the organization of training courses, provision of required textbooks and

teaching manuals for educational and cultural institutions, expansion of Diaspora Armenians’ educational

opportunities in secondary and higher education institutions of Armenia, contribute to the establishment of

Sunday schools and summer camps,

f. participate in the elabotation and implementation of “Diaspora Culture Development Stategy”,

support activities aimed at preservation of the Armenian identity such as export of culture to the communities,

preservation, protection, development and dissemination of cultural heritage and further activities aimed at the

protection of Armenian heritage,

g. assist in the development of economic projects of the Republic of Armenia, participation of the

Diaspora entrepreneurs in the development of Armenia' economy, strengthening of regional and international

competitiveness, contribute to the promotion of tourism between the Republic of Armenia and the Diaspora, as

well as to the efforts of Diaspora businessmen, help coordinate projects they implement,

h. elaborate a strategy on information exchange between Armenia and the Diaspora, as well as common

pan-Armenian information systems (websites, films, brochures, books, CDs, etc.), develop and implement tele-

and videoconferences, pan-Armenian conferences, acquire and coordinate historical, statistical, political,

educational, cultural, spiritual, scientific, economic and other information on Armenian communities, and assist

in the creation of an exhaustive information database on Armenian communities,

i. assist in the preparation and training of specialists for the Diaspora by creating relevant departments,

centers, faculties, training courses and by organizing researches on the history of Diaspora both in Armenia and

the Diaspora,

j. elaborate reintegration projects for Armenians and their generations forcefully converted to other

religions, conduct relevant researches and cultural projects,

k. participate in the formation of flexible and clear structures and organization of response to anti-

Armenian propaganda, expressions of Armenophobia in some countries and falsifications of Armenian history,

l. assist in the convergence of the Eastern and Western Armenian languages,

m. elaborate projects aimed at the self-organization of the unorganized part of the Diaspora, creation and

development of pan-Armenian professional communities and associations,

n. assist in the creation of professional organizations, structures in the Diaspora,

o. participate in the implementation of EU-Armenia Action Plan within the framework of the Partnership

and Cooperation Agreement signed between the Republic of Armenia and the European Union and New

European Neighborhood Policy,

p. assist in the facilitation of dual citizenship acquisition procedures for Diaspora Armenians,

q. ensure close cooperation of the Armenian Apostolic, Armenian Catholic and Armenian Evangelic

Churches on issues of their competence.

57. The Ministry acts as a client and brings forward certain problems to various state bodies. The Ministry

implements its projects with the support of embassies of the Republic of Armenia in foreign countries. The

Ministry operates based on the principles of equality of rights, democracy, legitimacy, philanthrophy,

transparency, publicity, cooperation and accountability.

58. It is possible to strengthen nation- state, struggle against challenges of the 21-st century, protect

Diaspora from assimilation, resolve the issue of Nagorno-Karabakh Republic only through the national unification

around Armenia, joint formulation and implementation of key goals and priorities of all Armenians and through

united efforts of Armenia, Nagorno-Karabakh and the Diaspora.

It is proposed to establish a pan-Armenian central organ, a National Council under the auspices of the

President of the Republic of Armenia, to promote common Armenian causes, promote Armenia-Diaspora

Partnership, jointly discuss pan-national and global issues, clarify national priorities, as well as render pan-

Armenian character to the activities of the state bodies and ensure cooperation.

The National Council will be a national, public advisory body that will review pan-national priorities, pan-

Armenian problems by taking into consideration the peculiarities of Armenia, Nagorno–Karabakh Republic and

Diaspora communities of different countries. The state bodies of the Republic of Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh

Republic should take into consideration the recommendations of the National Council while elaborating or

revising the policy on Armenia-Diaspora Partnership. The National Council membership will comprise the state

officials of the Republic of Armenia, Nagorno–Karabakh Republic, representatives of Diaspora organizations,

famous individuals, and clergymen. The National Council will act in accordance with its charter.

59. Armenian schools of the Diaspora are the key institutions that help maintain and protect the Armenian

identity abroad; the number of pupils in these schools is however decreasing due to some financial and

organizational reasons. Such decrease negatively affects the financial base of the Armenian schools and many of

them have to close down. The books used in Diaspora schools need to be regularly reviewed and updated.

Armenian language is one of the main pillars supporting the Diaspora. The issue of preservation and proliferation

of the Armenian language is a high priority; a significant part of Diaspora Armenians do not speak Armenian or

have only limited command of the language, while in some Diaspora communities the usage of the Armenian is

limited to oral commucation. It is necessary to promote the knowledge and usage of Armenian language in

Armenian communities. At the same time, poor or limited knowledge of the Armenian language should not

hinder the involvement or full-fledged participation of any Armenian in the socio-political life of the community.

Being a cornerstone of Armenian identity, the Armenian language (no discrimiation should be allowed on the

basis of poor knowledge of the language) should first and foremost be viewed as a means of preserving the

Diaspora Armenian communities. In view of these issues the Government of the Republic of Armenia, through

authorised institutions of the state, will elaborate and implement national educational projects in the Diaspora

The teaching of the language has to be implemented through Sunday and secondary schools, vocational training

(subject to sufficient number of students), distance learning, and video devices.

60. Pursuant to its mandate and functions, the Ministry of Education and Science, in cooperation with

other bodies of the state and organizations, relevant bodies of foreign states and international organizations,

implements the relevant aspects of the National Policy for Armenia-Diaspora Partnership Development. These

functions address the strengthening of the spiritual and intellectual potential of the nation, the formation of an

Armenian individual in Armenia, Nagorno-Karabakh and the Diaspora, who should be properly qualified

professionally, harmoniously developed, patriotic and humanistic. Specifically, the Ministry designs and

implements the national education policy vis-a-vis the Diaspora as well as contributes to the elaboration,

implementation and monitoring of projects aimed at maintaining educational activities for Armenians. Within the

framework of the National Education policy, the Ministry provides assistance to the educational institutions of

the Diaspora, including formation of joint professional groups, implementation of educational training programs

and creation of textbooks for secondary and Sunday schools, helps publish French, Spanish, Portugese, Russian,

English, Turkish, Armenian books to be used by children who do not speak Armenian, and provides training

opportunities in Armenia for the youth from the Diaspora. Considering the geography and linguistic diversity of

the Diaspora, the Ministry offers training for teachers for Armenian communities and, as necessary, arranges

professional exchange visits. The Ministry contributes to the increased participation by Diaspora professionals in

education activities in Armenia. It develops the National Language Policy, ensures its regular review and

implementation, with an emphasis on the importance of the Armenian language in the preservation of Armenian

identity in the Diaspora. The Ministry undertakes projects aimed at the preservation, dissemination and

promotion of Armenian language among Armenians residing in foreign countries, as well as assists in the

organization of joint activities of educational, upbringing nature, conferences, consultations and other activities

on educational, scientific issues between state governing and local self-governing bodies of Armenia, Nagorno-

Karabakh Republic and Diaspora structures.

61. Pan-Armenian educational, cultural activities and initiatives should encourage the participation of the

Diaspora Armenian organizations in in their elaboration and implementation. Modern information technologies

should be introduced and properly utilized for the organization of distance learning. For this purpose, the stock of

Diaspora Libraries should be regularly replenished, and pan- Armenian internet web-sites on Armenian literature,

culture, history, military art, mythology and other fields should be designed and launched. It is necessary to work

out projects and digitize valuable works of Armenian literature to make them accessible for Armenian youth. One

of the priority issues of the Diaspora communities is the availability of reliable and comprehensive information on

Armenia (also Nagorno-Karabakh and the Diaspora). Although TV programs broadcasted in the Diaspora and a

number of internet and printed media have partially resolved the issue, however, the essential part of Armenians

residing abroad is rather unaware of socio-political, cultural and spiritual life of Armenia. Information on Armenia

is often inaccurate, and this directly affects the information security issues of Armenia, Nagorno Karabakh, and

the Diaspora. The field of information has no mechanisms of forming a consolidated image of Armenia and

Armenians. The Government of Republic of Armenia through state authorized bodies elaborates and consistently

implements a concept on the preservation of Armenian national cultural values in Nagorno-Karabakh Republic

and foreign countries.

62. The Ministry of Culture, pursuant to its mandate and functions, and in partnership with other state

governing bodies and organizations of RA, interlocutor organisations of foreign countries and international

organizations, implements a set of functions pertaining to the National Policy on Armenia-Diaspora partnership

development. These functions include cultural cooperation and promotion of exchanges between Armenia,

Nagorno-Karabakh Republic and the Diaspora, enrichment of national cultural heritage, preservation, protection,

research, use, promotion and provision of services, creation of free and available conditions for direct or indirect

communication with national cultural values, preservation of national cultural values in the territory of other

countries as provided for by international legal instruments. The Ministry compiles information on tangible and

intangible cultural heritage of pan-Armenian significance. It elaborates the concept on the preservation of

Armenian national cultural values in Nagorno-Karabakh Republic and foreign countries, participates in the

elaboration of national strategic and targeted projects of Armenia-Diaspora partnership development in the area

of culture and organizes its implementation and monitoring. The Ministry participates in the registration and

research of museum and library collections of pan-Armenian importance, assists in their preservation and

replenishment, creation of pan-Armenian library- information networks compilation and exploration of intangible

heritage objects of pan-Armenian importance. The Ministry contributes to the organization of pan-Armenian

festivals, exhibitions, trade-shows, auctions, symposia, conferences, seminars and other events, as well as within

the framework of Armenia-Diaspora partnership ensures advocacy of cultural policy through mass-media.

63. Ministry of Foreign Affairs, pursuant to its mandate and functions, and in partnership with other state

governing bodies and organizations of RA, relevant bodies of foreign countries and international organizations,

implements a set of functions related to the state policy on Armenia-Diaspora partnership development. These

are aimed at the implementation of the foreign policy of the Republic of Armenia in this field, consistent and

adequate representation of the rights and interests of Armenians residing in Armenia, Nagorno-Karabakh

Republic and foreign countries in international relations, as well as provision of necessary information to state

bodies for the implementation of the policy on Armenia-Diaspora partnership development. In particular, within

the framework of Armenia-Diaspora partnership it coordinates state and territorial bodies’ activities of the

executive in the field of international relations and performs other functions provided for by the law of RA on

“International agreements of the Republic of Armenia”, ensures Armenia’s participation in international

organizations, conferences, consultations and other fora in foreign countries related to Armenia-Diaspora

partnership, assists in the dissemination of information on the state policy on Armenia-Diaspora partnership

development. The Ministry within the framework of international law contributes to the effective application of

international tools of the state policy on Armenia-Diaspora partnership development, reviews the practice.

64. The Ministry of Economy, pursuant to its mandate and functions, and in partnership with other state

governing bodies and organizations of RA, corresponding bodies of foreign countries and international

organizations, implements a set of functions of the state policy on Armenia-Diaspora partnership development.

These are aimed at the implementation of an economic policy vis-a-vis the Diaspora, application of innovative

knowledge, skills and models of business management, engagement of the Diaspora's potential in the formation

of business culture and development of high value and knowledge-based services as well as formation of a

favourable business environment in Armenia.

65. The Ministry of Territorial Administration, pursuant to its mandate and functions, and in partnership

with other state governing bodies and organizations of RA, corresponding bodies of foreign countries and

international organizations, implements different functions of the state policy on Armenia-Diaspora partnership

development aimed at return of migrants to the Republic of Armenia, elaboration and implementation of

rehabitation projects. It also carries out works and programs (including those on sister cities) that promote

cooperation between regions and cities of countries with large Armenian communities and provinces and cities

of Armenia with the help of territorial administrative and local self-governing bodies.

66. The National Security Service, within the scope of its mandate and functions and in partnership with

other state governing bodies and organizations of RA, corresponding bodies of foreign countries and

international organizations, implements functions concerning the state policy on Armenia-Diaspora partnership

development. These aim to guarantee the security of citizens and organizations of RA outside Armenia, assist in

obtaining and termination of citizenship of RA, entry and exit, as well as resolution of issues concerning the

status of Armenian nationals in foreign countries.

67. The Police of the Republic of Armenia within the framework of mandate and functions, implements

functions aimed at protection of human rights and freedoms, protection of all types of ownership, ensuring

public order and public security and adequate response to crime. It arranges and monitors provision of passports,

registration of the citizens of RA, entry, stay, transit, exit from the territory of the Republic of Armenia by foreign

citizens, including Diaspora Armenians and non-citizens, as well as the activities of the police services and bodies

that deal with the protection of norms defined by the legislation in granting dual citizenship.

68. The Ministry of Sport and Youth, within the framework of its mandate and functions and in

partnership with other state governing bodies and organizations of RA, corresponding bodies of foreign countries

and international organizations, implements specific functions of the state policy on Armenia-Diaspora

partnership development. These include patriotic upbringing of youth in Armenia, Nagorno-Karabagh Republic

and the Diaspora, development of sport and youth exchanges for the organization of pan-Armenian youth, sport

events, implementation of scientific, methodological activities, participation of pan-Armenian youth

organisations in conferences, seminars, and organization of exchange visits.

69. The effective and sound participation of the civil society in the elaboration and monitoring of the state

policy on Armenia-Diaspora partnership development is implemented through involvement of NGOs both from

Armenia and the Diaspora.

70. The state policy on Armenia – Diaspora partnership development in 2009-2012 aims at further

institutional development of its implementing bodies, coordination of activities including strategic planning in the

state bodies carrying out functions within the framework of Armenia – Diaspora partnership development.

2.5 Human Resource Development, Information Management

The quality of Armenia-Diaspora partnership largely depends on professional capacities of the specialists of

the bodies responsible for the implementation of the state policy on partnership development as provided for by

the inroductiont of necessary systems on preparation, training and continued education.

71. Training of such professionals should mainly take place at government-funded institutions of higher

learning. For this purpose, schools, faculties and departments are established, the profession of “Armenology” is

included in the projects on the preparation of Bachelors and Masters financed by the State. The number of topics

that could be researched increases.

72. For the implementation of Armenia-Diaspora thematic professional workshops, the capacities of

professional training institutions and professional education centers are used, as well as the centers of

Armenology of foreign countries and corresponding institutions of international organizations are involved.

Trainings of specialists implementing representative, educational and cultural functions, particularly, include

skills on effective multicultural communication, conflict management, elaboration of educational programs,

textbooks and methodological manuals and organization of trainings.

73. Within the framework of Armenia-Diapora partnership, importance is attached to the organization of

educational visits and short-term missions of specialists to the corresponding institutions of the countries that

have best practices in dealing with the Diaspora, as well as arrangement of visits of corresponding specialists to

Armenia for carrying out scientific, practical trainings on the issues of Armenia-Diaspora partnership.

74. The comprehensive, complete and accessible system of statistics on Armenia-Diaspora partnership has

not yet been established. There is no system of summarizing detailed information, exchange and reports on the

different functions of Armenia-Diaspora partnership, Armenian structures and organizations of the Diaspora,

their needs and objectives.

75. Within the framework of Armenia-Diapora partnership, the priority directions of the preparation,

training of specialists, information management are the introduction of professional training and re-training

schemes, improvement of education and training systems, improved information gathering, exchange and

analysis systems on Armenia - Diaspora partnership.

The main issues of the mentioned directions are:

a. Introduction of a professional education system within Armenia-Diaspora partnership, defining the

scope, qualifications and requirements on Armenian Studies and the History of Armenian Communities within

the Master’s programs of higher educational institutions; design, implementation and funding of Diaspora

studies and related topics, development of capacities of higher education institutions, establishment of a legal

framework.

b. continued professional training system in the field of Armenia- Diaspora partnership by means of

structured curricula, assessment of professional training capacities of training institutions within the public

administration system, establishing the pool of professionals to be trained;

c. needs assessment for professional education and training for Armenia-Diaspora partnership

development, provision of appropriate funding, capacity development of institutions providing such training;

d. improved systems of gathering, exchange and analysis of information on Armenia-Diaspora partnership

within the government; streamlining of procedures for data exchange, improved statistics, modern analytical

tools, expert assessments and analysis of outcomes of cooperation.

CHAPTER 3BASIC INSTRUMENTS OF ARMENIA-DIASPORA PARTNERSHIP

3.1. Regulations on Citizenship, Entery and Residence

77. In today's globalized world, more people wish to hold citizenship of two and more states. Despite

different requirements and procedures for granting citizenship, many states currently accept or at least allow

their citizens to obtain a second citizenship without giving up the original citizenship. The system of dual

citizenship is stipulated in the founding laws of a number of countries, in international conventions, bilateral and

multilateral agreements.

78. Pursuant to constitutional reforms of November 27, 2005, the Article 30.1 of the Armenian

Constitution provides for dual citizenship, whereby the rights and obligations of persons with dual citizenship

shall be stipulated by law. In Armenia the constitutional provision of of dual citizenship is a unilateral

commitment undertaken by the Republic of Armenia, within the framework of international law, aimed at

promoting the unification of the Armenian nation, developing the pan-Armenian potential and strengthening the

Armenian economy, uniting Armenians worldwide, reinforcing ties with the Diaspora, maintaining the Armenian

historical and cultural values and heritage in foreign countries, as well as developing Armenian educational and

cultural life.

79. Dual citizenship in the Republic of Armenia has been established by law, whereby acquiring citizenship

of a second state shall not have any implications on the scope of the rights and obligations of a citizen. Pursuant

to amendments to the “Electoral Code of the Republic of Armenia” made on February 26, 2007, dual citizens

which are not registered in the Republic of Armenia do not participate in the elections. In general, according to

the current approach, the peculiarities of the legal status of dual citizens should be stipulated in international

treaties, on the level of multilateral agreements. However, so far no agreement on dual citizenship has been

signed between the Republic of Armenia and any other state. At the same time the peculiarities of taxation and

military obligations have not yet become a subject of individual legal regulation.

80. Within the framework of the legislation of the Republic of Armenia, the key provisions related to

entry/exit to the Republic of Armenia comprise issuance of an entry visas and/or provision of a special residence

status. As a rule, entry visas to the Republic of Armenia are given for 120 days, with a possibility of extending it

up to a maximum of 60 additional days (Law on Foreigners of the Republic of Armenia).

81. According to the law, there are three categories of residence status granted to aliens in the Republic of

Armenia:

a) temporary residence status is given for a period of one year with an opportunity to extend it for one

year each time;

b) permanent residence status is given for a period of five years to a person who has close relatives in

Armenia and has financial means to cover housing and living expenses;

c) special residence status is given for a period of ten years to foreign nationals of Armenian origin..

In general, the Armenian legislation on granting residence status contributes to the process of repatriation

of Armenians and stems from the interests of Diasporan Armenians.

82. The main directions for an effective implementation of the tools of the Armenia-Diaspora partnership

development policy are as follows: different sets of rights and obligations of dual citizens, improvement of

entry/exit regulation procedures, the inter-state regulation of immigration, reintegration, naturalization and

repatriation, as well as organization and implementation of pan-Armenian events. The key objectives include a

clear scope of rights and obligations of dual citizens, specific regulation of rights and obligations of dual citizens,

negotiation and and signing of inter-state agreements on dual citizenship with the states having large Armenian

communities.

3.2. International Legal Instruments

83. Armenian communities exist and operate across a wide range of different jurisdictions; they enjoy

different legal status as provided for by international instruments, bilateral and multilateral relations, national

legislation and international commitments of the host country.

84. The legal status of Armenians living abroad is defined by national laws and regulations of the country of

residence.

85. The legal status of a national minority in a given country does not depend on the status of individuals (a

citizen, a person with a residence permit, a refugee, etc.), as well as on the terms of stay in that country

(individuals with permanent residence status, seasonal migrant workers, etc.). The rights of national minorities

are stipulated by the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, a universal international legal act

adopted in 1966, whereby persons belonging to national minorities shall not be denied the rights to enjoy their

own culture, to profess and practice their own religion and its rituals, or to use their own language. This legal

norm is also stated in customary international law, thus it is also mandatory for the states not signatory to the

Covenant. The Covenant does not require the signatory state to undertake activities aimed at ensuring the

implementation of minority rights; the states, however, shall refrain from violating the norm and ensure the

possibility for legal protection, not allowing violation of these rights by other persons. Consequently, national

minorities themselves shall undertake measures to enjoy their own culture, to profess and practice their own

religion and its rituals, or to use their own language.

86. The Republic of Armenia is a party to the “CIS Convention on Minority Rights” (1994). The European

Charter for Regional and Minority Languages (1992), the Framework Convention for the Protection of National

Minorities (1995) stipulated additional rights and guarantees of the minorities (in particular, guarantees for using

their own languages, including the commitment by the state to develop language teaching, ensure their own

language practicing by the minorities, etc.)

87. The regional international agreements on national minority rights are ratified by a limited number of

states. In particular, Georgia, where the issue of the protection of minority rights is vital, is not a party to the

European Charter for Regional and Minority languages.

88. In protecting the rights of national minorities in foreign countries the Republic of Armenia gives a

special importance to the interstate cooperation as well as to multilateral cooperation with international

organizations, such as Council of Europe’s Commission on Fight against Racism and Intolerance and the European

Committee on Legal Cooperation.

89. The legal status of a refugee is applied to a person, who under a justified concern of being subjected to

persecution due to race, religion, citizenship, belonging to a certain social group or having certain political beliefs

finds oneself outside of his/her country of citizenship and is not able, or, based on the aforementioned concern,

is not willing to enjoy the protection of that country and cannot return to that country (the same is applicable to

the individuals not having citizenship, in regard to their country of residence). At present a number of Armenians

residing in certain countries hold a refugee status or the issue of granting of a refugee status to them is under

consideration. The international-legal norms supporting Armenians with a refugee status are mostly about

protecting the rights and guarantees of those with a refugee status.

90. The Republic of Armenia supports the repatriation of Armenians irrespective of the country they leave

or arrive from. The Republic of Armenia contributes to the protection of the rights and freedoms of Armenian

refugees in foreign countries, providing professional consultations and ensuring the most efficient and quick

settlement for granting of a refugee status through diplomatic channels. In this regard, the cooperation with the

UNHCR is of great importance. To support the repatriation of Armenian refugees, the Republic of Armenia

emphasizes cooperation with international organizations, in particular, with the Council of Europe and

International Organization for Migration, as well as ensures the implementation of international legal norms in

this field, in particular enforcement of the European Social Charter. In the Republic of Armenia a special

importance is given to the cooperation with the European Committee on Migration, which is responsible for

ensuring the collaboration between Council of Europe member states on issues related to migration.

91. The Republic of Armenia also gives importance to bilateral agreements stipulating privileged conditions

for citizen’s entry and temporary residence status. The Republic of Armenia has similar agreements with a

number of countries, including CIS member states. Such agreements, as a rule, stipulate visa-free entry and

relatively privileged temporary residence conditions.

The main directions for an effective enforcement of international legal tools in the field of the Armenia-

Diaspora partnership are as follows: protection of national minorities, refugees, human rights and legal rights in

given states, as well as repatriation issues.

3.3. Legislative and Inter-parliamentary Cooperation

92. The Government of the Republic of Armenia prioritizes the improvement of legislation and expansion

of inter-parliamentary cooperation within the framework of developing the Armenian-Diaspora partnership.

93. The Armenia-Diaspora partnership development in various fields requires an adequate legal

framework. In this regard great attention is given to the elaboration of legislation on individual issues of the

Armenia-Diaspora partnership cooperation and the exception of any discriminatory policies on educational,

cultural, linguistic, religious and political issues.

94. To promote the repatriation of Armenians the Government of the Republic of Armenia prioritizes the

ongoing improvement of the legislation on dual citizenship, legislative differentiation of the rights and obligations

of persons with dual citizenship, facilitation of entry/exit, development of legislation on reintegration,

repatriation and immigration issues.

95. The effective solution of such issues as the establishment of pan-Armenian electronic database,

introduction of new educational systems in Diaspora, distance learning in Armenian studies, preservation,

protection and development of the cultural heritage and its presentation to the world requires elaboration of the

existing and the improvement of the related legislation. It is necessary to support the activities of the Armenian

scientific centers in Diaspora and strengthen their links with Armenia. The improvement of the legislation of the

Republic of Armenia related to Diaspora and Diaspora Armenians is of utmost importance.

96. Pan-Armenian structures which were formed within the framework of the Armenia-Diaspora

partnership development and their activities also need to be legally regulated. In this regard the regulation of the

activities of the National Council by a separate law, in accordance with the Constitution and other laws of the RA,

its cooperation with the governmental, non-governmental and international organizations, as well as relationship

to other issues, is of great importance. Certain issues related to the activities of other pan-Armenian

organizations such as the Pan Armenian Global Investment Fund and Pan-Armenian Bank also requires legislative

regulation, in line with the norms of the international law and the national legislation of the Republic of Armenia.

97. The Government of RA also prioritizes inter-parliamentary activities aimed at developing the Armenia-

Diaspora partnership within the framework of international and inter-state structures, such as inter-

parliamentary friendship groups and inter-parliamentary commissions, with the parliaments of individual states

by means of raising and discussing issues related to Armenia-Diaspora partnership.

98. The cooperation with the parliamentarians representing national parliaments of different states within

the framework of Inter-parliamentary Assembly of Member Nations of the Commonwealth of Independent

States (CIS IPA), Parliamentary Assembly of the Organization for Cooperation and Development in Europe (PA

OSCE), Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and Parliamentary Assembly of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (PA

BSEC) may also support the settlement of a set of issues related to the development of the Armenia-Diaspora

partnership. In this regard of importance is the prevention and resolution of conflicts within the framework of

these structures, activities of the Armenian parliamentarians aimed at strengthening and uniting institutions

working towards the protection of the rights and legitimate interests of Armenians living in member-states, as

well as consistent consultations on issues of national economic interests of the Armenians living in member-

states minority rights and security issues of the Armenian communities and humanitarian issues of the Armenian

migrants.

99. The establishment of the Pan-Armenian Inter-parliamentary Assembly comprising parliamentarians

from Armenia, Nagorno Karabagh as well as those of Armenian origin representing national parliaments of

different states all over the world will also support the development of the Armenia-Diaspora partnership and

have its impact on the coordination of the aforementioned issues, the improvement and effective use of

international legal instruments for the Armenia-Diaspora partnership.

3.4. Civil Society Participation

100. The Government of the Republic of Armenia prioritizes civil society support to the Armenia-Diaspora

partnership by outsourcing individual functions of the public policy implementation to the civil society structures,

developing social partnership within the framework of the Armenia-Diaspora cooperation, as well as by

participation of the citizens and public entities in the development and monitoring of the public policy for the

Armenia-Diaspora partnership.

101. Planned activities in the fields of education and human rights protection as well as key functions of

the Armenian communities on the protection of the rights of the national minorities or refugees carried out

within the framework of state policy and aimed at the development of the Armenia-Diaspora partnership can be

most effectively implemented both by the involvement of the civil society and by means of outsourcing some of

such functions. The role of the non-governmental and non-profit organizations in Armenia, Nagorno Karabagh,

and Diaspora is also essential on issues of migration, repatriation, resettlement, reintegration, social protection

and socialization of Armenian migrants in destination countries, as well as prevention of trafficking. NGOs play an

important role in Armenia and Diaspora in cognitive, inter-cultural and educational processes of the Armenians

living in various cultural environments and communities. The involvement of the NGOs of Armenia, Nagorno

Karabgh and the Diaspora in the knowledge and experience exchange programs is essential.

102. The Government of the Republic of Armenia contributes to the dissemination of knowledge and

experience of Diaspora businessmen and public actors with rich experience in corporate-social responsibility and

social cooperation as well as deepening of the social cooperation culture in Armenia and Nagorno Karabagh,

expecting active participation of the civil society in this field.

103. Considering the development and role of modern IT, the Government of the Republic of Armenia

encourages online resources, such as bloghs blogs on issues concerning Armenia, Nagorno Karabagh and

Diaspora, contributes to the dissemination of the Armenian media outlets in various countries, as well as

promotes the access to Diaspora media in Armenia and Nagorno Karabagh. In this regard the organization and

satellite broadcasting of regular Armenia-Diaspora teleconferences to discuss the most urgent issues concerning

Armenia, Nagorno Karabagh and Diaspora and the involvement of the civil society organizations and their

effective cooperation with the public administration bodies and businessmen is of high priority. The Government

of the Republic of Armenia also contributes to the posting and dissemination of educational, national and other

video materials on the web.

104. The Government of the Republic of Armenia prioritizes the efforts of the civil society aimed at

capacity building measures and introduction of practical mechanisms supporting the development of the

Armenia-Diaspora partnership. In this regard, it should be considered that civil society institutions in Diaspora

have been established and are functioning mostly with a mission to solve the issues of individual Armenian

communities. The activities of the civil society institutions in regard to the pan-Armenian issues are mostly about

the international recognition of the Armenia Genocide, as well as about the activities of professional unions.

Hence, it is necessary to consider the ways and models, experience and lessons learned from the involvement of

the civil society in different directions of the Armenia-Diaspora partnership.

105. To carry out the Armenia-Diaspora partnership, it is important to ensure that the process of its

implementation is reviewed and monitored by the civil society, and the results of this review are used for the

assessment of the Armenia-Diaspora partnership development policy. The issues of the Armenia-Diaspora

partnership development review in various fields are aimed at the transparency, publicity, accountability and

efficiency increase of the process.

106. The directions of the civil society support to the Armenia-Diaspora partnership are as follows:

participation of the citizens and public entities in the development and supervision of the public policy in this

field, outsourcing of individual functions of the policy implementation to the civil society institutions and the

development of social cooperation. The main issues in the aforementioned directions are as follows;

a. To introduce functional mechanisms of civil society participation in the decision-making process on the

development of the Armenia-Diaspora partnership, by means of raising public awareness on the principles, goals

and objectives of the Armenia-Diaspora partnership; public policy coverage оn the Armenia-Diaspora partnership

development; involvement of the civil society representatives from Armenia, Nagorno Karabagh and Diaspora in

individual councils and commissions functioning under the auspices of line agencies responsible for the Armenia-

Diaspora partnership; definition of the participation processes; review and analysis of research and findings of

public opinion surveys by NGOs from Armenia, Nagorno Karabagh and Diaspora on the events, initiatives and

discussions and making them subject of public discussions; involvement of the civil society in the preparatory

stage of the legislative initiatives and decisions; guaranteed participation of the representatives of interested

social or professional groups; ensuring consultations via electronic means among all responsible bodies;

organization of media coverage of regular programs, publications, official web pages, public discussions and

hearings, printed materials, conferences; development of civil society capacities for the implementation of the

Armenia-Diaspora partnership through the organization of training programs and courses for civil society entities.

b. To delegate individual functions for the implementation of the public policy on the Armenia-Diaspora

partnership development to civil society institutions with a purpose of conducting research using state grants;

commissioning research and education programs; supporting the Armenians living abroad for repatriation,

resettlement, reintegration, providing social support to Armenian migrants in the host countries; giving state

support for the prevention of trafficking; ensuring state support to prevent intolerance towards Armenians and

to promote inter-cultural education of Armenians living in different cultural environments and communities

through the establishment of analytical centers to study issues of pan-Armenian importance and support to their

activities.

c. To support the development and implementation of knowledge, experience exchange and cooperation

programs between Armenia, Nagorno Karabagh and Diaspora with support from civil society institutions by

means of ensuring state support to exchange programs for the children and youth; involvement of Diaspora

organizations in national and international events; support to NGOs in organizing pan-Armenian exhibitions;

support to the activities and cooperation of the Armenian professional associations; establishment of a register

of Armenian non-commercial organizations in Armenia and foreign countries; establishment of a register of

Armenians working in global reputable non-commercial organizations; involvement of the Diaspora businessmen

and public actors in the establishment of the social cooperation culture in Armenia and Nagorno Karabagh;

contribution to the cooperation between the organizations that deal with the protection of interests of Armenia,

Nagorno Karabagh and Diaspora; establishment of a pan-Armenian advocacy forum, contribution to the

organization of the interest protection and fund raising trainings for the Armenian NGOs acting in different

countries and the exchange of experience between such organizations, support to the organization of regular

tele and video conferences; posting and dissemination of educational, informative and other video materials on

the web.

d. To develop the civil society capacities to support the development of the Armenia-Diaspora

partnership through ongoing review of available formats, models and experience of involving the civil society in

different areas, needs assessment of the civil society capacities as well as through the application of the existing

mechanisms of the state support to the institutional capacity development of the NGOs and introduction of new

mechanisms.

3.5. Armenian Studies

107. The Armenology is a system of sciences, which has been formed in the beginning of 18 th century,

although the interest of Armenia and the Armenians in Armenology dates back to ancient times.

108. Up to 1918 Armenology has been mostly developed outside of Armenia, in the Armenian

communities, in Russian, European and Western universities. Famous Armenology centers have been

established. The Armenian folklore, literature and history studies have been developed especially since 1870.

Since the 18th century valuable works have been created in the fields of Armenian literature, law, philosophy and

music.

109. Armenology has undergone a new development during the Soviet times, the main and leading

center of which was Soviet Armenia. Not only the scholars, academicians and scientific institutions contributed to

the development of Armenology, but also a range of periodicals. The historiography of the Soviet Armenia has

paid a great attention to the scientific and multidisciplinary study of the historical, political, socio-economic and

cultural issues of the Armenian people.

110. The scientists and linguists of the Soviet Armenia and Diaspora dealt with the issues of the historical-

comparative studies of the Armenian language, history of the Armenian language, dialectology, vocabulary

studies, general linguistics, grammar of modern Armenian language, language theory, etc. Significant

achievements were registered in amost all fields of linguistics; a range of problematic issues of the Armenian

language history were resorved, historical-comparative grammar of the Armenian language was completed,

collection and scientific study of the dialects was founded and expanded.

111. Anthropology underwent a separate development. Planned activities of the scientific-research and

educational institutions have been performed in the areas of ethnography and folklore studies. In the area of art

studies, especially from the mid 19th century, the studies of the Armenian architecture have been launched.

Significant works have been carried out in the area of the Armenian music studies; a record library with more

than 7000 Armenian folksong records has been established. During the Soviet times the Armenian dramaturgy

has also gained a new momentum.

112. There are various Armenology centers and organizations operating in independent Armenia. There

are also many Armenology centers and various activities on Armenology carried out in universities and academic

centers of many countries. Various museums and libraries are acting in Armenia and other countries. Various

Armenology periodicals are published in foreign countries.

113. The priority directions of the unified and coordinated Armenology policy of the Armenia-Diaspora

partnership are as follows: cooperation between Armenology institutions of the Republic of Armenia and other

countries, compilation and coordination of the Armenology materials, creation of a common IT based

information exchange framework. The key issues are to:

a. contribute to the strengthening of the role and place of the Armenian culture in the world civilization

by means of developing an integration policy of the Armenian cultural values into the world culture, inventory of

the Armenian cultural and historical values and monuments in Armenia and foreign countries as well as an

assessment of their current conditions, development of public and private libraries and archives in Armenia and

abroad, replenishing their stock, inventory, digitization, creation of manuscript manuals and e-libraries;

b. create an Armenology information domain across domestic and international networks by means of

approximation of the Western Armenian, development of a conversion software, distance learning on

Armenology, development of a software supporting the systemitazation of the Armenology materials online,

(“Armenology systems”), digitization of print materials, develop common coding protocols, compiling

bibliographies of various materials related Armenology and Armenian stidies; establishment of working

partnerships with national centers of individual countries, identification and recognition of new Armenian

cultural values, presentation and promotion of Armenian cultural values globally and internationally;

c. develop institutional capacities of organizations dealing with Armenology issues by means of

registering the Armenian and Diaspora think tanks, research and party institutions and organizations, develop a

national Armenology strategy with participation of tall stakeholder organizations, identify the areas of

Armenology that are underdeveloped;

d. develop the Armenian print bibliography by means of registering the articles and reviews in the books,

chronicles, magazines, newspapers, periodicals and elsewhere, inventory of the Armenian print books,

decorative art, etchings, as well as photographs, lithography and images obtained using other printing

technologies, from the first day of printing up to date;

e. promote publication of books, collections, encyclopedias, reference books, series of manuscripts and

periodicals on Armenology;

f. promote preservation and development of the Western Armenian as well as the approximation of the

Western and Eastern Armenian languages.

CHAPTER 4MAINSTREAMING OF ARMENIA-DIASPORA PARTNERSHIP POLICY

4.1. Foreign Policy

114. The Diaspora is a unique bridge between Armenia, international community and other states.

Diaspora organizations with various objectives considerably contribute to the development of bilateral relations

between Armenia and other states, international integration of Armenia and strenghening of Armneia's

democracy.

115. Nagorno-Karabakh successfully upheld its independence from Azerbaijan and established

foundations of a democratic state based on universal human rights and values. However, the status of Nagorno

Karabagh has not been recognized so far, and foreign investment remains limited; the security of the population

of Nagorno Karabagh is still high on the agenda.

116. The Armenia-Diaspora partnership in efforts aimed at settling the Nagorno Karabagh conflict

contributes to the security of Nagorno Karabagh population, development of Nagorno Karabagh statehood,

raising awareness of the international community on the legal and historical background of the conflict and the

status of Nagorno Karabagh, peaceful and fair settlement of the conflict through negotiations, recognition of the

right of self-determination of the Karabagh people, broadening of international dialogue and cross-border

cooperation to preclude the military scenarios of the settlement.

117. The basic premises of Armenia-Diaspora partnership for the settlement of Nagorno Karabagh

conflict the starting principles are the following:

a) any final agreement or document has to receive the approval of the Nagorno Karabagh population, b)

any alternative settlement shall reflect the de facto independent status of Nagorno Karabagh,

c) Nagorno Karabakh shall have land connection with Armenia and its security shall be ensured by the

international community.

118. The Armenian Genocide committed in the Ottoman Empire during the World War I shall be

recognized by the international community as well as by Turkey.

119. Diaspora organizations and lobbying groups have a huge input in the international recognition of the

Armenian Genocide. Many countries and international organizations have recognized the Armenian Genocide.

Discussions on the recognition of the Armenian Genocide are currently taking place in many countries, even

under the constraints conditioned by the political interest.

120. In the area of the foreign policy the priority directions of the Armenia-Diaspora partnership are: to

contribute to the peaceful and fair settlement of the Nagorno Karabagh conflict, to the international recognition

of the Armenian Genocide, to the prevention of anti-Armenian expressions and to the broadening of the people’s

diplomacy. The key objectives in the aforementioned directions are:

a. to contribute to the peaceful and fair settlement of the Nagorno Karabagh conflict by means of

harmonizing the Armenian foreign policy and political potential of the Diaspora, putting together the efforts of

Armenia, Nagorno Karabagh and the Diaspora, effective involvement of the academic potential of the Diaspora in

the field of Armenology and others, contributing to the foreign investments in the economy of Nagorno

Karabagh, contributing to the repatriation, providing financial resources for the socio-economic projects

implemented in Nagorno Karabagh, involvement of the professional potential of Armenia and Diaspora in

individual areas and support to the organization of various international conferences and initiatives in Nagorno

Karabagh;

b. to contribute to the international recognition of the Armenian Genocide through mutual efforts of

separate sections of Armenia, Nagorno Karabagh and the Diaspora, unifying the foreign policy of Armenia with

the potential of the Diaspora, supporting the development of the academic institutions and research centers on

Genocide studies, ensuring the smooth change of generation of scholars and researchers, using public measures

of the international recognition of the Armenian Genocide, formation of a unified, legitimate, reputable and

representative body to work for the benefit of the Diaspora in the process of the international recognition of the

Genocide by means of an effective use of international instruments against cultural genocide.

4.2. Community Cooperation

121. The public policy of the Armenia-Diaspora partnership development prioritizes bilateral amicable

relations between the local self-governing bodies in Armenia, Nagorno Karabagh and Armenian communities’

overseas as well as direct cooperation by means of signing agreements between the community or non-

governmental organizations and the Armenian communities overseas, projects within the framework of sister-

city agreements, as well as “Community to Community” international movement. The Armenian Government

assigns a special importance to raising the level of self-organization of the communities, their support to

Armenia’s international integration, review of the cooperation opportunities in the areas of education, economy

and culture and accordingly the establishment of mutually beneficial partnership, as well as mutually beneficial

exchange of experience in the areas of economy, culture, health, science, education, sport and tourism.

122. Within the framework of the Armenia-Diaspora partnership the establishment of bilateral relations

between sister-cities of Armenia’s marzes and deepening of cooperation with the support of Armenian

communities as well as identification of the community problems and provision of regular information on their

needs is prioritized. The Government of Armenian supports the authorities of marzes, self-governing bodies of

urban and rural communities in the exchange of experience between Armenian and Diaspora communities, in

tourism development, including family tourism and agro tourism, short-term exchanges of young Armenian

families and other initiatives contributing to real interactions in the areas of education, culture, sport and

economy within the scope and mandatory and voluntary functions delegated to regional and local

administrations of Armenia.Within the framework of Armenia-Diaspora partnership development and for

delegating the individual state functions to the community, the Government of Armenia considers it a priority to

ensure that full and adequate funding is provided to support the delegated powers by the state and stakeholder

organizations.

123. The identification, broad coverage, various ways of presentation of the contribution made by a given

community representative will greatly support the formation of favorable environment for solving community

problems. By stirring up and organizing the information flows we will greatly contribute to the cooperation of the

Armenian communities all over the world, within the framework of the Armenia-Diaspora partnership.

124. The directions of cooperation between Armenia, Nagorno Karabagh and the Diaspora are:

establishment and development of amicable bilateral relations and cooperation by means of direct ties between

the Armenian communities, as well as encouragement and implementation “Community to community”

international movement. The major objectives in the aforementioned direction are:

a. to support to the establishment and development of the direct bilateral relations and cooperation

between the Armenian, Nagorno Karabagh and the Diaspora communities by means of development of bilateral

relations between sister-cities within the framework of signed agreements, activization of interactions between

the Armenian communities in the areas of economy, education, culture and sport, exchange of experience,

tourism, including family tourism and agro tourism, identification and presentation of the contribution by the

Armenians in the development of the communities resided by the Armenians, involving Armenian

representatives of the host countries’ executive and legislative bodies in the technical assistance projects,

establishment of the registry of the sister-cities, establishment of a registry of the political representations,

formation of a new sister-cities arrangements between cities with the Armenian population and municipal

districts of Armenia and support to the establishment of contractual relationships;

b. to contribute to the development of “Community to community” international movement by means of

expansion of the participation of the Armenian communities in the respective international structures, support to

the preservation of the Armenian historical-cultural values and exchange of experience of Diaspora communities

within the international cooperation framework between the Armenian communities, contribution to the

establishment of pan-Armenian forum of the local self-governing bodies with the participation of the leaders and

community councilors of Armenian, Nagorno Karabagh and the Diaspora bodies and support to its activities.

4.3. Business Sector

125. In the present world of globalization states compete not only for the markets, but also for the more

efficient involvement of the Diaspora in the development process of their economies. In this regard within the

framework of the Armenia-Diaspora partnership two major directions are set forward: a practical participation of

the Diaspora in the Armenian economy as well as a reliable and beneficial cooperation of the Armenian

businessmen in the global economy on the bilateral and multilateral level.

126. As for the practical participation of the Diaspora in the Armenian economy, the involvement of

Diaspora businessmen and specialists in the promotion of foreign direct investments in Armenia and introduction

of modern knowledge, skills, business ties and formation of a business culture in the Armenian economy is of

priority. In regards to the partnership of Armenian businessmen an importance is given to the activities of the

Armenian businessmen from different countries in Armenia and overseas, as well as to pan-Armenian

professional unions, structures and investment projects.

127. The investment activities of Diaspora greatly contribute to the development of the Armenian

economy in the sectors of construction, financial services, information technologies, jewelry and diamond

cutting, tourism and hospitality services, health services, agricultural products’ processing and food processing,

textile industry, retail and wholesale trade, entertainment, industrial production, tool production, passenger

transportation, publishing and printing services, legal and consulting services, as well as in small and medium

enterprises. Nevertheless, there is a greater potential of investment activities of the Diaspora Armenians in

Armenia.

128. The Armenian businessmen have substantial contribution and weight in some areas of the global

economy. At the same time a number of pan-Armenian professional sector organizations, as well as the

cooperation of Diaspora Armenians from different countries in Armenia and overseas remains limited. Up to

now, there are no big pan-Armenian investment funds established.

129. The participation of Diaspora in promoting the foreign direct investments in Armenia is greatly

conditioned by the factors of the business environment and effective public administration in the country. In

2008, according to the indicators on doing business among 178 countries, Armenia was on the 39 th position, one

of the bests among the Eastern European and CIS countries (as compared with its 46 th position of the previous

year). Nevertheless, the procedures on doing business are still far from being satisfactory by their simplicity and

transparency.

130. The provisions of the program of the Government of Armenia and that of the Armenian National

Security Strategy stipulate the need for improvement of the business environment. The Government of Armenia

undertakes necessary steps to make Armenia “a center of excellence” of business and investment environment,

to make it the best place to start, run and develop a business. In particular, the present public policy of Armenia,

ensuring competitive business and trade conditions on the international level, attracting foreign investments,

improving business and investment environment is aimed at the liberalization of the economy, promotion of free

competition, simplification of administrative procedures, implementation of balanced fiscal tax and customs

policy, effective protection of the consumers’ interests and training of specialists in accordance to international

standards. We put an importance to the establishment of an insurance system complying with the international

standards to guarantee investments attracted from Diaspora from possible risks.

131. The development of the knowledge-based economy infrastructure in the country is a precondition

for the overall growth of the productivity and knowledge-based economy establishment. Given the modern

trends of the foreign direct investments and the progressive growth of the investments in the science-driven

sectors the Government of Armenia takes steps to significantly change the structure of the competitive

advantages of the country. The role of natural resources and the presence of cheap labor force will gradually

decrease while qualified specialists, research and scientific institutions and developed infrastructure will get a

decisive role. The Government of the Republic of Armenia pays a special attention to the development of the

information and communication technologies and their broad application. At present, those are strategic

directions for the improvement of the competitive advantages of the country. In this regard the Diaspora

knowledge and skills are a key source.

132. The experience and intellectual potential of the Diaspora businessmen and specialists is an exclusive

advantage for the development of the Armenian economy, promotion of the investments and exports.

Consequently we put an importance to the use of the Diaspora potential for the knowledge exchange and

development of domestic capacities, increase of the information, marketing and financial potential, expansion of

the research on development and formation of the modern education system, by means of consulting, expert

assessment and guidance. In particular, we put an importance to the more active involvement of the Diaspora

businessmen and specialists in the development of the education sector, introduction of the present-day

knowledge and skills in the business area of Armenia and formation of a business culture. With a purpose of

developing a fair and robust business in the country the application of the accumulated Diaspora experience to

form a modern culture in the contacts between the businessmen, as well as the businessmen and the state in

Armenia is also urgent.

133. The expansion of the high value and knowledge-based services in the Armenian economy mostly

implies to the development of internationally competitive financial, consulting, medical and tourism services. In

2008, in the aforementioned sectors, the Government of Armenia is consistently implementing a range of

national programs, including the national program “Armenia - An Organized Leisure Zone”. A state policy on the

development of high value services with a growth potential has been worked out, including the Concepts on

Tourism Development and Information Technology Development. As a result of public-private-Diaspora

cooperation the tourism sector has been substantially developed, the infrastructures such as roads, the airport

meeting new international norms, hotel industry, catering and entertainment places have been developed, the

service quality has been improved. The involvement of the Diaspora businessmen and the use of their

connections in the tourism infrastructure, such as the development of the hotel network and its effective

employment are top on the agenda.

134. The Government of Armenia has adopted a policy of making Armenia an exporting country with a

well developed industrial system. Such policy implementation may be greatly contributed by the involvement of

the Diaspora accumulated experience and knowledge in the introduction of modern management models and

application of innovation output systems, which will contribute to the expansion of competitive technologies,

constant development of the human capital, production of the goods according to international standards, as

well as expansion of new external markets. It is important to note that, in regards to the access to external

markets and awareness of the global experience, the Diaspora is one of the most important competitive

advantages of Armenia.

135. The Diaspora potential and human capital can considerably contribute to the generation change and

modernization of the industrial capacities in Armenia, in particular, efficiency increase of the existing hydro-

potential and research aimed at the creation of the alternative energy sources. The Government of Armenia

promotes the investments of the Diaspora businessmen in the areas, where they can lead to the energy savings

and energy efficiency increase. We also put importance to the involvement of the Diaspora human and financial

potential in the exploration, preservation, rehabilitation, reproduction and effective use of minerals and natural

resources of Armenia. In the urban-planning development the Government of Armenia continues to encourage

the participation of the Diaspora businessmen in the housing construction, in the construction and

reconstruction of the educational, cultural, sport, health and other socially important centers, among those co-

funded joint projects.

136. The Government of Armenia prioritizes the Diaspora’s active participation in the development and

implementation of the foreign policy of the country, as well as the activities of the Armenia’s institute of trade

missions overseas. With the purpose of a complete use and development of the Armenian potential in the global

economy the establishment of the pan-Armenian global investment fund is appropriate. With the purpose of

expansion of the fund, the Republic of Armenia prioritizes the provision of state guarantees to the investments

projects approved by the fund. The Government of Armenian gives importance to the establishment of the Fund

pan-Armenian bank with a purpose of developing national and global investment infrastructure by means of

attracting financial resources from Armenia, Nagorno Karabagh and the Diaspora, and from foreign nationals as

well. It will also allow for efficient and consistent protection of the intellectual and property rights of the

Armenian citizens in Armenia Nagorno Karabagh and abroad, according to the international standards.

137. The Government of the Republic of Armenia prioritizes the active participation of the business sector

of Armenia, Nagorno Karabagh and the Diaspora in the development process of Javakhq economy. The

unemployment is one of the acute problems of Javakhq and the reason for mass emigration of the local

Armenians. Within “The Millennium Challenge Account” program the reconstruction of the main roads in

Javakhq is envisaged, which may considerably contribute to the improvement of the business environment. The

level of good governance and of business environment in Geogia is comparable to Armenia in a set of indicators,

which is an additional incentive for the investments in Javakhq. The Government of the Republic of Armenia

together with the Government of Georgia envisages organizing a business conference in Javakhq aimed at the

promotion of investments in Javakhq, as well as to the cooperation of the businessmen from Georgia, Armenia,

Nagorno Karabagh and the Diaspora in Javakhq.

138. The priority directions of the Armenia-Diaspora partnership in the business sector are: the expansion

of the Diaspora businessmen’s involvement in the attraction of foreign direct investments, introduction of the

modern knowledge and skills in the business sector, involvement of business connections and formation of the

business culture in Armenia, as well as expansion of bilateral and multilateral reliable and profitable cooperation

of the businessmen from Armenia and Diaspora in the global economy. The major objectives in the

aforementioned directions are:

a. implement an economic policy perceivable for the Diaspora by means of reinforcing the institutional

cooperation and feedback with the business sector of Diaspora, assessment of the potential of various sectors of

the economy and expansion of their industrial capacities by the involvement of the Diaspora businessmen and

specialists, provision of the harmony between the projects implemented within the cooperation framework of

the pan-Armenian structures and Diaspora organizations and the Armenian Government’s socio-economic

priorities, evaluation of the alternative directions for the development and integration into the global economy

with the participation of the Diaspora, identification of new technologies, labor force and capital demand and

promotion of the role of Diaspora to meet those requirements, form a friendly and positive environment in

Armenia and the Diaspora for the vision of the sustainable economic growth of the country;

b. to expand the involvement of the Diaspora potential in the business sector in regards to introducing

the modern knowledge and skills, application of results of the contemporary management models, introduction

of the systems and formation of the business culture by means of: assessing the ways and dynamics of

development and integration of global economy integration and consequently involving the Diaspora

businessmen and specialists in the identification process of new technologies, labor force and capital demand,

expansion of the innovative output application in the economy, commercialization of the science and

involvement of the Diaspora in the formation of the knowledge-based economy, involvement of the new

technologies, management skills and innovations existing in the Diaspora, involvement of the Diaspora

businessmen and specialists in the formation of the knowledge-based economy infrastructure, deepening the

cooperation with the international reputable organizations, establishment of venture capital funds with the

involvement of the Diaspora businessmen, formation of the information society, expansion of the

telecommunication infrastructure and development of modern technologies, expansion of the participation of

the Diaspora businessmen and specialists in the development of the information technologies and adjacent

professional educational system, encouraging the introduction of the information technologies in the economy,

encouraging the economy-science, science-universities ties, Involvement of the Diaspora businessmen and

specialist in the formation of business schools and implementation of modern educational programs,

involvement of the Diaspora businessmen and specialists in introducing distance learning in the professional and

special education, strengthening the corporate governance according to the best international experience and

introduction of the business ethic rules and criteria by means of involving the Diaspora businessmen and

specialists,

c. to form a favorable business environment and to consistently increase the public administration

efficiency by means of ensuring the stability and simplicity of the business regulating legislation, guarantying

absolute protection of the investments, simplification of state regulations on entrepreneurship, introduction of

effective mechanisms on state support to the entrepreneurship, introducing mutually profitable cooperation

mechanisms for public-private partnership, decent legal protection of the private property, ensuring business

promotion and infrastructure efficiency, introducing e-governance systems, to conform the accounting and audit

systems with the international standards, introduction of a functioning system for the protection of the

consumers’ rights in the area of financial services, improvement of the legislation in the insurance and credits

fields and infrastructure development, encouraging non-cash financial transactions, development of primary and

secondary mortgage market, activation of the equity market, consistent improvement of tax and customs

administration and improvement of the services provided by tax and customs agencies, protection of the

consumers’ rights and improving the service quality, strengthening tax self-assessment system and transition to

electronic or post system of tax reports, establishing special tax regimes for small and medium businesses,

introducing the selective tax audit practice, regulation of the activities of the investment funds and ensuring

descent conditions for the international exchange activities in Armenia; development of inter-state and intra-

state transport infrastructure, improvement of aviation security level, assurance of the legal protection of

passengers’ rights according to the international standards, introduction of a copyright and property right

protection system according to the international standards, improvement of a reliable and effective protection

system for private property and fight against corruption,

d. to extend the involvement of the Diaspora’s potential in the development of high value and science-

based services thourgh services with a development potential, by means of identification of the priority types

and target markets, capital market development, expansion of internationally competitive financial

intermediaries and involvement of the Diaspora businessmen and specialists in the development of the special

medical services, involvement of the Diaspora businessmen and specialists in presenting Armenia as a favorable

and attractive country for tourism in the international market, involvement of the Diaspora businessmen and

specialists in the development of diamond cutting, jewelry and tourism development, encouraging the access of

the Diaspora businessmen and specialists with international reputation and advanced management skills, who

are involved in technology dissemination through the involvement of the Diaspora businessmen potential in the

processing of the internal resources and competitive industries related to foreign investment,

e. the implementation of the aforementioned objectives can be greatly contributed to by the Armenian

Businessmen’ Unions as well as the establishment of a pan-Armenian Association.

4.4. Religious Issues

139. The Constitution and laws of the Republic of Armenia provide for the conscience and religion and

stipulate the principles regulating the relationships between the Republic of Armenia and the Armenian Apostolic

Church, specify its role of the national church in the foundation of the spiritual life and national identity

preservation of the Armenian people. The Republic of Armenia guarantees the protection of the Armenian

Apostolic Church in Armenia and overseas in compliance with all the international legal norms.

140. As a result of activities of the Armenian Apostolic Church and the Armenian state many Armenian

churches have been established and reconstructed in different parts of the Diaspora, new dioceses were

established and many Armenians in the Diaspora got an opportunity to communicate with spiritual values.

141. Armenian Catholic and Armenian Evangelical Churches bring their own contribution to the

preservation of the Armenian identity in the Diaspora, unification of the community, development and

strengthening of the Armenia-Diaspora partnership.

142. Within the framework of the Armenia-Diaspora partnership it is of great priority to carry out

activities with the Armenians and their generations that have been forced to change their religion. The activities

performed with different groups of converted Armenians shall be targeted, taking into account the environment

they live in. Within the framework of the international law in different Diaspora communities targeted research

on Armenian studies is performed, aimed at identification of linguistic, cultural commonalities and realities of the

Armenians that were forced to convert.

143. All the bodies mentioned in the Concept paper develop projects and events, according to their

functions, aimed at Armenia-Diaspora partnership development.

CHAPTER 5MONITORING AND EVALUATION SYSTEM

144. In order to ensure the effective implementation of the Armenian-Diaspora partnership it is

necessary to develop and introduce an evaluation system for the projects implemented within the policy and

their impact on the Armenia-Diaspora partnership. With this purpose a concept paper on monitoring and

evaluation system is in the stage of development, report forms of the public administration bodies of the

Republic of Armenia and the subsequent requirements are also developed and will be soon submitted to the

Government of Armenia for approval. These activities will allow give realistic assessments to the development of

the Armenia-Diaspora partnership and will serve as a basis for introducing amendments and changes in the

priority directions, objectives and programs.

145. The structures of the National Council being established both in Armenia and Diaspora participate in

the monitoring and evaluation processes of the Armenia-Diaspora partnership development, which provide the

evaluations by different sections of the Armenians to the National Council with the purpose of revision and

monitoring of the implemented policy.

146. The Armenian Government prioritizes the participation of the Armenian, Nagorno Karabagh and

Diaspora entities in the public policy of monitoring and evaluation of the Armenia-Diaspora partnership

development.

147. The major directions, goals and objectives established by the public policy defined by the Armenia-

Diaspora partnership development are not constant and are subject to changes by the revision of the Armenia-

Diaspora partnership development policy, based on the main developments and trends in Armenia, Nagorno

Karabagh and Diaspora.

148. The priority directions for the monitoring and evaluation of the Armenia-Diaspora partnership

development public policy are: elaboration, introduction and development of the monitoring and evaluation of

the Armenia-Diaspora partnership development policy, establishment and development of an institutional

system ensuring reliable, compatible, quality and integrated information, support to the development of the

monitoring and evaluation capacities of the Armenian non-governmental sector. The major objectives are to:

a. elaborate, introduce and develop a system of monitoring and evaluation of the Armenia-Diaspora

partnership development policy by means of developing and introducing procedures on targeted and functional

benchmarks as well as indicators and unified requirements, information management systems, monitoring

indicators, evaluation and analysis methodology, risk assessment,

b. establish and develop an institutional system ensuring reliable, compatible, quality and integrated

policy on the Armenia-Diaspora partnership development by means of establishment of observation procedures

in the relevant public administration bodies and coordination of those procedures, regulation of information

flows, development of the professional monitoring and evaluation capacities of the public entities’ personnel,

c. support and develop the monitoring and evaluation capacities of non-governmental sector of Armenia

by means of establishment and development of the pertinent methodology and capacity, provision of the access

to the respective information and outsourcing the non-governmental sector to perform quality evaluation.

The key provisions of the concept paper on Armenia-Diaspora partnership development can be fulfilled

only by means of sectoral projects aimed at the implementation of those provisions, laws of the Republic of

Armenia, Decrees of the President of the Republic of Armenia, Decrees of the Government of Armenia and the

Prime Minister, pan-Armenian coordinated initiatives and measures with the joint, harmonized and targeted

work of the Armenian public, local self-administration bodies, non-governmental organizations, Diaspora

organizations and other entities.

ABBREVIATIONS

NA National Assembly

USAID US Agency for International Development

CIS Commonwealth of Independent States

CIS IPA CIS Inter-Parliamentary Assembly

OSCE Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe

CoE Council of Europe

PACE Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe

CSTO Collective Security Treaty Organization

WB World Bank

AGBU Armenian General Benevolent Union

NGO Non-governmental organization

RA The Republic of Armenia

ARF Armenian Revolutionary Federation (Dashnaktsutyun)

UNDP United Nations Development Programme

UN United Nations

IPU Inter-Parliamentary Union

RLDP Ramkavar Liberal Democratic Party

SDHP Social Democratic Hunchakian Party

PABSEC Parliamentary Assembly of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation

ICPCPR International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights

FDI Foreign Direct Investments