From November 22 to 26, 2024, CB Director Garba Diallo conducted a monitoring visit and capacity-building mission to Armenia. The visit centered around the Analytical Centre for Regional and Global Cooperation (ACRGC), our partner in the Armenia Meeting Point project. This initiative aims to build bridges between civil society and independent media, equipping them to address the pressing challenges posed by encroaching anti-democratic forces.
A major highlight of the trip was a capacity-building seminar held in Gyumri, a city located near the Armenian-Turkish border. The seminar tackled the crucial theme: “The Needs and Strategies for Civil Society Actors and Independent Media to Join Forces to Expand and Protect Civil Spaces.” Gathering 37 representatives from 12 civic organizations and three independent media outlets across Armenia, the seminar provided a platform for dialogue, experience-sharing, and strategic planning. It was hosted by the renowned democracy advocate, journalist, and art director Dr. Levon Barseghyan, whose dedication to democratic values inspired participants. The discussions culminated in a shared agreement among participants: The best way to safeguard democracy is for civil society and independent media to join forces around common interests.
The success of this trip would not have been possible without the efforts and support of Dr. Stepan Grigoryan, Armen Grigoryan, Dr. Levon Barseghyan, and Nona Hovhannisyan.
This visit reaffirmed the importance of cross-sector collaboration in safeguarding democratic values.
