EU Committed to Combating Disinformation and Strengthening Ties with Armenia Amidst Regional Tensions
Yerevan, Armenia – The European Union is stepping up its efforts to counter disinformation and bolster its relationship with Armenia, particularly in light of heightened tensions and the spread of misleading narratives surrounding the EU’s presence in the region. EU Ambassador to Armenia, Vassilis Maragos, acknowledged the recent surge in disinformation targeting the EU, particularly after the deployment of the EU monitoring mission to the Armenian-Azerbaijani border in February 2023. However, he expressed confidence in the Armenian public’s ability to discern credible information from fabricated narratives, emphasizing the EU’s commitment to transparent communication and fostering media literacy.
The ambassador underscored the EU’s dedication to ensuring the Armenian public is well-informed about the bloc’s activities and contributions to the country’s development. He highlighted various initiatives, including public events, social media engagement, and media interviews, aimed at disseminating accurate information and fostering open dialogue. The recent Europe Day celebration in Yerevan served as a prime example of these efforts, showcasing the breadth of EU projects and the active involvement of member states in Armenia. The ambassador stressed the importance of these engagements in countering misrepresentations and promoting a deeper understanding of the EU’s role in the region.
A central focus of the EU’s engagement in Armenia is the ongoing monitoring mission along the border with Azerbaijan. Ambassador Maragos lauded the mission’s contribution to regional stability, emphasizing its role in not only monitoring border activities but also providing a sense of security to communities living in the volatile border regions. He underscored the positive reception of the mission by both Armenian authorities and local populations, highlighting its tangible impact on the lives of those most affected by the ongoing tensions. The ambassador framed the mission as a crucial element of the EU’s commitment to promoting peace and stability in the South Caucasus.
Beyond security concerns, the EU remains a key partner in Armenia’s development, investing significantly in various sectors. Ambassador Maragos pointed to the substantial €150 million program dedicated to strengthening the resilience of Syunik province, a region bordering Azerbaijan and deeply impacted by the ongoing conflict. This financial commitment reflects the EU’s dedication to supporting Armenia’s economic development and improving the living conditions of its citizens, particularly in vulnerable areas. The ambassador highlighted this investment as a concrete example of the EU’s long-term commitment to Armenia’s prosperity and stability.
Recognizing the crucial role of a robust and independent media landscape in combating disinformation, the EU has pledged €1.5 million in targeted support for Armenian media. This initiative, announced by EU High Representative Kaja Kallas during her June visit to Yerevan, aims to bolster media literacy, strengthen journalistic capacity, and promote independent reporting. Ambassador Maragos emphasized the high expectations surrounding this initiative, acknowledging the importance of engaging with professional journalists and civil society organizations to ensure its effectiveness. He reiterated the EU’s commitment to supporting a free and vibrant media landscape in Armenia as a cornerstone of democratic development.
Furthermore, the EU has launched initiatives aimed at empowering young people to navigate the complex information landscape. The Young European Ambassadors program, for instance, organized media literacy seminars to equip young Armenians with the critical thinking skills necessary to identify and combat disinformation. While acknowledging the tech-savviness of Armenian youth, Ambassador Maragos also cautioned about their vulnerability to online manipulation and the importance of fostering responsible digital citizenship. He underscored the EU’s commitment to empowering young people with the necessary tools to become discerning consumers of information.
In conclusion, the EU remains steadfast in its commitment to partnering with Armenia, addressing the challenges of disinformation, and supporting the country’s democratic development. Ambassador Maragos expressed confidence in the Armenian people’s resilience and ability to distinguish between credible information and manipulative narratives. He reiterated the EU’s dedication to transparent communication, media literacy initiatives, and continued investment in Armenia’s future, emphasizing the importance of a strong and informed citizenry in navigating the complex geopolitical landscape and building a more secure and prosperous future.