Boell Talks: Disinformation and External Interference in Armenian Politics

As Armenia approaches critical parliamentary elections expected to be held on June 7, 2026, the integrity of information and public trust in democratic processes are facing growing challenges. Russian disinformation continues to shape public opinion, polarize society, and undermine trust in state institutions. These narratives, often amplified by pro-Russian local media, social networks, and proxy platforms, exploit existing divisions to weaken Armenia's democratic resilience. Yet disinformation represents only one dimension of a broader pattern of external interference. Armenia is increasingly exposed to hybrid threats — from economic coercion and energy dependency to diplomatic manipulation, border tensions, and intimidation of its diaspora abroad.

Moldova’s experience offers valuable insights into these dynamics. There, Russian influence has combined disinformation with political financing, energy blackmail, and religious and cultural linkages. Through coordinated state action and robust civil society engagement, Moldova has made progress in countering such multi-layered interference and safeguarding democratic resilience. Learning from Moldova’s experience can help Armenia anticipate and mitigate external interference in its electoral process.

This Boell Talks webinar will explore:

• The main channels and narratives of Russian disinformation in Armenia;
• Mechanisms to counter disinformation and improve democratic resilience;
• Aspects of Moldova’s experience that could be adapted to the Armenian context;
• Ways to anticipate and mitigate hybrid Russian interference in the upcoming Armenian elections.

Join us to discuss how Armenia can safeguard its information space and democratic resilience despite the challenging regional environment.

Welcome remark

• Deren Derya, Head of Division Moldova, Belarus, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan; European External Action Service (EEAS), Brussels

Panelists:

• Artur Papyan, Media Diversity Institute / Cyber Hub Armenia
• Vardine Grigoryan, Helsinki Citizens’ Assembly Vanadzor Office
• Paula Erizanu, Journalist
• Nad’a Kovalčíková, European Union Institute for Security Studies

Moderator:
Sonja Schiffers, Heinrich Böll Foundation Tbilisi Office – South Caucasus Region

Please register here.