Post-electoral briefing on the presidential elections in Armenia

On 26 February 2013, European Friends of Armenia (EuFoA) held a post-electoral briefing dedicated to the presidential elections in Armenia which took place on 18 February 2013. The briefing focused on first-hand impressions collected around the elections by some of our Europe-Armenia Advisory Council (EAAC) members, as well as on the presentation of the results of two opinion polls commissioned by EuFoA ahead of the elections.

During the event, MEP Frank Engel, one of the EAAC members who travelled to Armenia, shared his impressions on the elections. Additionally, Dr Michael Kambeck, EuFoA Secretary General, provided insights into what people think about politics in Armenia and their motivations for voting, based on the TNS opinion polls commissioned by EuFoA.

Over 30 representatives from the European institutions, international organisations, NGOs and media were present at the event. The briefing took place in an interactive environment and the public actively participated in the discussion.

On 18 February, presidential elections took place in Armenia. One of the key components of Armenia’s relation with Europe and also for EuFoA is the democratic development of Armenia. In the previous year, Armenia has deepened its relations with the EU. The negotiations for the Association Agreement are constantly progressing, and a Visa Facilitation agreement was signed in December 2012. Moreover, both sides are seeking a conclusion of negotiations for the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area during the Eastern Partnership summit in Vilnius in November this year. The proper conduct of the presidential elections is crucial for Armenia’s European path.