Most Armenians Want to Read Peace Agreement with Azerbaijan Before It's Signed: Survey Shows Strong Desire for Public Involvement

A new survey reveals that a clear majority of people in Armenia want to see and understand the peace agreement with Azerbaijan before it is signed. This shows how deeply Armenians care about the country’s future and want to have a voice in one of the most important decisions facing the nation.

According to data presented by Armenian sociologist Aram Navasardyan at a press conference this week, over 86 percent of Armenian citizens believe it is necessary to get familiar with the peace agreement’s text before any signing takes place.

Specifically, 73 percent of those surveyed said citizens “definitely” need to read the agreement and give their own opinion. Another 13.1 percent agreed but with some hesitation. Only a small number — just over 11 percent — said they either didn’t think it was necessary or weren’t sure.

These results come at a crucial time in Armenian politics, as leaders continue negotiating with Azerbaijan following the devastating consequences of the 2020 war and the 2023 loss of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh). The people’s desire for transparency reflects a wider concern: that decisions about peace and territory should not be made behind closed doors.

The survey also asked how people feel about Russia stepping back from its role as a mediator in the peace talks. Just 29.8 percent saw Russia’s withdrawal as a positive development, while 60.6 percent viewed it as either “rather negative” or “definitely negative.”

This shows how complicated Armenia’s international alliances have become. For decades, Russia was seen as Armenia’s main protector. But in recent years — especially after Russia failed to prevent Azerbaijan’s 2023 attack on Artsakh — many Armenians have grown frustrated with Moscow’s lack of support.

When asked whether Armenia has a real chance to join the European Union, opinions were divided. About 37 percent of those surveyed believe membership is either “definitely” or “more likely” in the near future. However, 36.7 percent said it is unlikely or completely impossible.

This split shows that while many Armenians are looking to the West — especially Europe — for a safer and more democratic future, others remain skeptical or feel caught between East and West.

Political frustration in Armenia remains high. The survey found that 36.4 percent of respondents believe the most effective way to remove Prime Minister Pashinyan is through snap parliamentary elections. Others suggested resignation, street protests, or a vote of no confidence. However, 16.9 percent believe he should remain in power.

As for the current push for a vote of no confidence, 38 percent support it, while 44.2 percent oppose it or are unsure.

The message from the Armenian people is clear: they want a say in the country’s direction — especially when it comes to national security, leadership, and foreign alliances.

In light of this, any peace agreement with Azerbaijan should be shared publicly before signing. The people want transparency. They want to be heard. And they deserve to be included in decisions that will affect generations to come.

This survey, conducted by phone between April 29 and May 2 with 1,101 participants, serves as a powerful reminder: in a democracy, the people’s voice matters — especially during times of change and uncertainty.