About this book:

Delve into the intricate world of Armenian politics with this comprehensive guide. From its ancient roots and tumultuous history under various empires to the hard-won independence in 1991 and the challenges of state-building, this book provides a detailed overview of the forces that have shaped Armenia's unique political system. Explore the impact of geography, demographics, and centuries of foreign rule on the nation's political culture and institutions.

Unpack the structure of Armenia's government, examining the evolution of its constitution from a semi-presidential system to the current parliamentary republic. Gain insights into the roles and functions of the now largely ceremonial President, the powerful Prime Minister and Cabinet, and the National Assembly, the supreme legislative body. Understand the complexities of the proportional electoral system, the structure of the judiciary, and the framework for administrative divisions and local self-governance.

This guide also navigates the dynamic landscape of Armenian political parties, from historical forces to the rise of the Civil Contract party following the transformative 2018 Velvet Revolution. It examines the crucial role of civil society and media in shaping public discourse and holding power accountable, alongside an analysis of the practices and controversies surrounding elections in Armenia. Crucially, the book dedicates significant attention to the enduring and profound impact of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict on both domestic politics and foreign policy, tracing its influence through two wars and the recent displacement of the Armenian population. Finally, explore contemporary challenges, including corruption, human rights issues, Armenia's delicate foreign policy balancing act between Russia and the West, and the persistent political crises that continue to shape the nation's trajectory.

What You'll Find Inside:

• A comprehensive guide to Armenia's political system, covering its historical evolution, government structure, and key institutions.
• An in-depth look at the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, including the shift to a parliamentary republic and the roles of the Prime Minister and National Assembly.
• Explores the development of political parties and the party system, highlighting major players like Civil Contract, RPA, and traditional parties like ARF, and the impact of the Velvet Revolution.
• Discusses the complex and defining influence of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict on Armenia's domestic politics, foreign policy, and security alliances.
• Examines the landscape of human rights, civil society, media, electoral practices, and the ongoing challenges related to corruption and political accountability.

Who's It For:

This book is for anyone seeking a detailed understanding of Armenia's political landscape. It's ideal for students of political science or international relations, policymakers, journalists, researchers focused on the South Caucasus, or individuals with a general interest in the governance and history of Armenia.