If you want to become part of Europe, learn to discuss common issues together. “View from Yerevan”

The last parliamentary elections changed little in the RA political system. the boring “black and white” model of confrontation between “new and old” was again confirmed in the parliament. It is true that some officials are trying to see in these elections another “leap” for Armenia in the direction of sovereignty and democracy. In the sense that Russia’s attempts to maintain control over the state system of Armenia have been overcome. Whether this is true or not will soon become clear.

Now I would like to briefly discuss the widespread perception of sovereignty and democracy in the political circles of Armenia. First, let’s address the misconception that Putin’s departure from Russia will itself create conditions for Armenia to become a democratic state. The idea that the achieved national sovereignty can be transformed into something more amazing than it was before seems absolutely absurd. The sovereignty that national authorities can view as an opportunity to turn the country into an Asian “dungeon” for any citizen who asks too many questions does not occur to many.

There is an opinion that “it can’t get any worse than this”. But in vain. a misconception of national sovereignty always tends to seek enemies of the state in the form of any inconvenient individual. And then they can always be called “enemies of sovereignty and democracy”. Everyone can be grouped on a false scale, and democracy and human rights put to one side. This, probably, will not hinder the declared direction of joining the European Union. However, a question arises. will it really hurt? Is it enough to stay away from Russia?

I remember fifteen years ago at a forum one of the European ambassadors told the Armenian participants a simple truth. “You all talk about wanting to be part of Europe, but do you know what European culture is?” And explained. if you want to become a part of Europe, learn to discuss common issues together, respecting everyone’s opinion, submit proposals, come to an agreement, choose from existing proposals, make joint decisions, commit to implement them and be accountable to everyone.

And concluded: “This is Europe. Can you do it in Armenia? I see you still can’t. So learn. You’ll never get to Europe without it. Unfortunately.” The man made it clear that in order to go to Europe, Armenians will have to eat a lot of bread and cheese.

Manvel SARGSIAN

Full article: “Hayatsk from Yerevan” newspaper in this issue