Arman Tatoyan Asked Whether the Diaspora Should Participate in Armenia’s Elections if He Is Elected Prime Minister

Former Human Rights Defender of Armenia, Arman Tatoyan, has officially announced his candidacy for Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia. The announcement came during the launch of his new political initiative, Wings of Unity, which he described as an independent movement focused on solving real issues and forming a responsible government.

“We are an independent political initiative. We are here to solve real problems. We are aiming to form a government. I am running for the office of Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia,” said Tatoyan.

During the presser, Tatoyan outlined his vision for a multilateral foreign policy guided by Armenia’s national interests. He insisted on the importance of strengthening state institutions, ensuring human rights protections, and building unity among Armenians worldwide.

One of the central topics raised by The Armenian Report was the participation of the Armenian Diaspora in Armenia’s political life. The Armenian Report’s Ani Khachatryan asked whether Tatoyan would support allowing Armenian citizens abroad to vote in national elections through embassies or consulates—a practice used by many countries with large diaspora communities.

Tatoyan responded by stressing the vital role of the Diaspora in Armenia’s development.

“The Diaspora is an inseparable part of us; we are one united nation, and the Diaspora must absolutely take part in Armenia’s development. At the very least, I believe we should create a special body that will include representatives from the Diaspora who will also participate in decision-making. The work of the state agency responsible for Diaspora affairs should also be strengthened.”

Tatoyan added that he is open to public discussions about creating a voting system for Armenians abroad but emphasized the need to carefully study its potential effects.

“As for elections and the right to vote, I am ready to begin very open discussions to understand whether it serves our goals or not. What is certain is that the Diaspora must have clear participation—not only through charity but also as concrete partners through investments. The Diaspora should take part in Armenia’s prosperity by investing in various infrastructures and bringing knowledge. One of the main pillars of our movement is knowledge and scientific achievements, and we can achieve much of that through the Diaspora. It is also very important to consider what form the right to vote should take. It matters that those who vote also directly experience the impact of the government’s decisions.”

Tatoyan also touched upon the Artsakh issue, saying that the return of displaced Artsakh Armenians remains one of his priorities, while acknowledging the complexity of the situation.

“Of course, it would be false, dishonest, and unfair for me to talk now about the ‘return of Artsakh.’ Naturally, we are not discussing that issue at this stage,” Tatoyan said.

Tatoyan’s candidacy is a new phase in Armenia’s political landscape. His message shows a vision built on unity, knowledge, and responsibility—calling for collaboration between Armenia and its global Diaspora as key to the nation’s progress and security.

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