Diaspora Armenians urged to return ahead of 'decisive battle' for country’s future

An Armenian political figure on Thursday urged members of the country’s vast diaspora to return home and take part in shaping Armenia’s future, as a new political party was presented in Yerevan.

Speaking at the launch event of the Strong Armenia party, Gohar Ghumashyan, a member of the coordinating council of the Mer Dzevov (Our Way) movement, said Armenia’s “main battle” this year could not be fought without the participation of Armenians abroad.

“Being Armenian is not a status, but daily work needed by the homeland,” Ghumashyan said.

She highlighted large-scale emigration since independence in 1991, stating that around 1.4 million Armenian citizens have left the country, including more than 140,000 over the past five years, an average of 77 people, or about 20 families, per day.

Those who emigrated did so because they could not find livelihoods, justice or recognition at home, she said.

Ghumashyan said members of the diaspora, including those who have become citizens of other countries, have continued to support Armenia and act as “ambassadors of Armenian interests” worldwide. She criticized entry bans imposed on some diaspora Armenians.

Referring to businessman and philanthropist Samvel Karapetyan, she said that under his leadership diaspora Armenians would have both “the right to speak and the right to act” in determining the country’s future without fear that their patriotism would be punished.

She called on diaspora Armenians to return home, describing it not as an obligation but as an opportunity.

“This year’s main battle for Armenia cannot be fought without you. Return,” Ghumashyan said.