We, the Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum (EaP CSF) and its Armenian National Platform welcome the adoption by the Armenian National Assembly of the law launching the Republic of Armenia’s accession process to the European Union. This marks a pivotal and historic moment that confirms Armenia’s strategic orientation and places European integration at the core of its state-building agenda.
As stated in the newly adopted law:
“The Republic of Armenia, aiming to develop democratic institutions, improve the well-being of society, strengthen the country’s security, resilience, and the rule of law, declares the launch of the process of the Republic of Armenia’s accession to the European Union.”
This declaration is far more than symbolic. It carries profound political, legal, and societal significance. It lays the foundation for a new chapter in Armenia’s modern history, anchored in the principles of democracy, human rights, good governance, and the rule of law. At a time of mounting geopolitical challenges, this step brings clarity to Armenia’s foreign policy direction and opens the path toward a lasting peace, development, and security within a European framework.
Armenian civil society has been a steadfast advocate for European integration. Over the past decade, the Armenian National Platform of the Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum has consistently supported reforms aligned with EU standards, promoted participatory democracy, and contributed to the strengthening of public institutions. A clear reflection of this commitment is the fact that the draft law titled “On the Launch of the Process of the Republic of Armenia’s Accession to the European Union” was submitted to the National Assembly through the efforts of the “Eurovote” civic initiative, whose founding members are primarily representatives of organisations within the EaP CSF Armenian National Platform.
Commending its efforts to bring Armenia closer to EU, we call on the Government of Armenia to:
- Develop and publish a comprehensive national strategy for EU accession, based on a transparent and inclusive consultation process involving civil society and other stakeholders,
- Establish a detailed roadmap with clear timelines, reform priorities, and measurable benchmarks aligned with the Copenhagen criteria,
- Resolve institutional and legal inconsistencies that could hinder the start of the EU integration process, most notably by formally expressing Armenia’s intention to withdraw from the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). Despite the existing agreements with the EAEU, significant steps have been taken to reduce Armenia’s dependencies on Russia and to strengthen Armenia’s security resilience,
- Establish a dedicated Minister position tasked with leading and coordinating the EU accession agenda, oversee inter-agency efforts, and drive the implementation of European reforms. This proposal has already been supported by civil society, MPs and non-parliamentary democratic political forces.
We also urge the Armenian Government to initiate formal dialogue with the European Union on signing a new, updated agreement that reflects the logic and spirit of the newly adopted law, including provisions for the establishment of a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA). These steps are essential to unlocking the full benefits of European integration: access to EU markets, increased investment, innovation, and institutional reform mechanisms that support long-term stability and prosperity.
At the same time, we call on the EU and its Member States to:
- Intensify political dialogue with the Armenian Government to strengthen Armenia’s resilience. Armenia’s closer integration with the EU strengthens its resilience amid foreign and regional threats. Physical and hybrid threats in the form of foreign information manipulation, interference and cyber-attacks continue to undermine the security architecture of the country and will intensify in view of 2026 parliamentary elections. The continued presence of the EU’s civilian monitoring mission along the Armenia-Azerbaijan border is vital and must be maintained until a lasting peace agreement is signed by both sides and durable confidence-building measures are in place. Armenian civil society continues to play a vital role in strengthening Armenia’s socio-economic resilience and enhancing human security in the country.
- Facilitate further EU integration in light of Armenia’s explicitly articulated European aspirations, bolster its relations with Armenia and support the Armenian Government and the people of Armenia in the country’s democratic path towards a fully-fledged ‘3+1’ approach that includes the Trio Associated countries and Armenia,
- Provide staunch political support to peace efforts and facilitate the unblocking of transport links with Azerbaijan.
Civil society must be recognised as a strategic partner in both Armenia’ decision-making and Armenia’s bilateral relations with the EU. Public engagement, civic monitoring, inclusive and meaningful participation in policymaking are vital to ensure that the EU integration process is not only successful but also reflects the will of the Armenian people.
Armenia’s decision to launch the EU accession process is a bold and forward-looking choice. One that will reshape Armenia’s role in the region. It sends a clear message to the Armenian citizens, EU and international partners: Armenia’s future lies in a democratic, secure, and rule of law-based Europe.
The Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum and its Armenian National Platform stand ready to accompany and support this historic journey – through expertise, dialogue, and active engagement – so that European integration becomes not just a foreign policy goal, but a lived and inclusive reality for all in Armenia.
The Steering Committee of the Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum and the Armenian National Platform
Additional resources
Read or download the statement in PDF below.
