Armenia’s Constitution Needs a Change: Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s Call for New Constitution Sparks Debates

On Constitution Day, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan addressed the public, stating that Armenia needs a new Constitution. He emphasized that the people are sovereign in the country, both de jure and de facto after the Velvet Revolution of 2018. Pashinyan pointed out that the current Constitution is in deep socio-psychological conflict with the citizens of Armenia, who feel disconnected from its rules.

President Vahagn Khachatryan and National Assembly President Alen Simonyan also sent congratulatory messages on Constitution Day. Simonyan reiterated that power in Armenia belongs to the people and vowed to work towards creating prosperous and dignified lives for citizens. Khachatryan emphasized that the Constitution serves as a guide in building the Armenia of dreams and aspirations.

The United States Embassy in Armenia also extended their congratulations on Constitution Day. July 5 is celebrated as Constitution Day in Armenia, marking the adoption of the Constitution in 1995. Over the years, the Constitution has been amended twice through referendums. Prime Minister Pashinyan’s call for a new Constitution earlier this year sparked debates and discussions both within the government and from external sources.

Pashinyan stressed that a new constitution should reflect the ideas and beliefs of the Armenian people themselves, and be organically connected with its makers -the citizens of the country. The Prime Minister also emphasized his responsibility to continue strengthening Republic of Armenia’s path towards prosperity and development for all its citizens.

In conclusion, it is clear that there is a need for change in Armenia’s constitution to better reflect its citizens’ needs and aspirations