Armenia’s government has initiated the process to apply for EU membership, reflecting a strategic shift from its traditional alliance with Russia. The country has strengthened ties with the EU following the CEPA agreement in 2017, and eligibility for membership was affirmed by the European Parliament in March 2024. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan plans to conduct a national referendum to gauge public support for the initiative, which is influenced by Armenia’s security concerns with Azerbaijan.
On January 9, 2025, Armenia’s government approved a draft law aimed at formally commencing its European Union membership application process. This decision reflects Armenia’s desire to strengthen its connections with Europe, indicative of a potential shift in its geopolitical alignments.
In 2017, Armenia and the EU signed the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which took effect in March 2021. This agreement established a framework for enhanced political and economic collaboration between Armenia and the European Union, facilitating a gradual development of ties.
In March 2024, the European Parliament passed a resolution declaring Armenia eligible to apply for EU membership under Article 49 of the Maastricht Treaty. In response, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan announced plans to formally seek EU candidacy by autumn 2024, following a successful citizen-led initiative that encouraged government support for this draft law.
Prime Minister Pashinyan emphasized that the accession process would be incremental and would necessitate a national referendum to seek public consent. He noted, “In the event of the adoption of this law, it is necessary to have a certain idea of actions up to the point of holding or not holding a potential referendum.”
Armenia’s pursuit of EU membership signals a significant shift from its historical alliance with Russia. Traditionally reliant on Russia for security, Armenia is also a member of the Russia-led Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), which has raised concerns within the Kremlin regarding Armenia’s EU ambitions. Dmitry Peskov, the spokesperson for the Kremlin, stated that it is “impossible” to simultaneously be a member of both the EU and the EAEU.
This movement towards the EU occurs amidst ongoing tensions with Azerbaijan, particularly following the recent conflicts over Nagorno-Karabakh, which have led to increased insecurity for Armenia. The resultant displacement of ethnic Armenians may be a driving factor in Armenia’s inclination towards fostering closer ties with the European Union.
In conclusion, Armenia’s formal move to seek EU membership marks a pivotal change in its geopolitical orientation, moving away from reliance on Russia towards potential integration with Europe. This decision is underpinned by prior agreements strengthening ties with the EU and the acknowledgment of eligibility for membership. Crucially, the process will be conducted with public involvement, ensuring that it reflects the will of the Armenian populace amidst regional security concerns.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
