To explore local perspectives on the potential reopening of transport routes through the Meghri region, we conducted a participatory study between September and December 2024. Through a series of focus group discussions with residents, civil society organizations, local authorities, and the business community, the research aimed to spark dialogue and gather diverse viewpoints. The study’s findings were first shared with the local community in Meghri in early March and later presented on March 31 in Yerevan to representatives of political parties, state institutions, and civil society. The Chief Advisor to the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia, Mr. Hambarzum Matevosyan, attended the Yerevan event and underlined the critical value of such research in informing policymaking.

President Steinmeier’s First Official Visit to Armenia 
President Frank-Walter Steinmeier paid his first official state visit to Armenia on 30 March. He met with Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyan and Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. The visit focused on strengthening bilateral ties and underscoring Germany’s support for regional stability. Steinmeier emphasized support for democratic development and stability in the South Caucasus. 

Local Elections in Gyumri – No absolute majority for Civil Contract 
Municipal elections in Gyumri, Armenia’s second-largest city, were held on 30 March and concluded without a clear majority for the ruling Civil Contract party, which secured 36.8% of the vote. While Civil Contract still gathered the most votes by far, opposition parties gained notable support, complicating the post-election landscape, setting the stage for coalition negotiations. The outcome suggests growing voter appetite for alternative political voices at the municipal level, creating uncertainty. 

Thousands of Karabakh Armenians protest in Yerevan 
Calling on the government to take stronger action, thousands of displaced Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh held demonstrations in central Yerevan. Protesters demanded that the government should address the humanitarian and security needs of those forced to flee the region. The rallies were organized by civil groups representing displaced communities and received wide public attention. This civic mobilization underscores the lingering domestic impact of the Karabakh crisis. 

Georgian Dream Presses Ahead with Repressive Legislative Push

The ruling Georgian Dream party has escalated its authoritarian clampdown, by introducing a raft of repressive legislative proposals that tighten control over civil society and independent media. Central to this push is the controversial "foreign agents" bill — framed as a translation of the US Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA). However, unlike its American counterpart, which focuses on political lobbying, the Georgian version targets NGOs, media, and civil society groups receiving foreign funding. A parallel draft law on foreign grants seeks to further restrict external support for these sectors. Opposition forces and civil society warn of accelerating authoritarianism as public protests continue to challenge the government’s repressive agenda.

PACE Again Condemns Rapid Democratic Backsliding in Georgia, Calls for Withdrawal of Restrictive Legislation   
The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) has once again sharply criticized the Georgian government’s legislative trajectory. In a newly adopted resolution, PACE reiterated its call for an immediate repeal of restrictive laws, urged compliance with European democratic standards, and emphasized the need for renewed engagement with civil society. In response, Georgian Dream, which is boycotting the assembly, denounced the resolution as Soviet-style interference and accused PACE of violating its own principles regarding national sovereignty. 

Western Pressure Increases: Germany, US, and UK Target Georgian Dream with Coordinated Sanctions 
Amid persistent democratic decline, Germany, the United States, and the United Kingdom have each implemented targeted measures against individuals connected to the ruling Georgian Dream party. Sanctions include visa restrictions and potential asset freezes, aimed at increasing pressure on the ruling elite. Western officials stressed these actions are reversible if democratic standards are restored. 

Georgia Marks 36th Anniversary of the 1989 Tbilisi Massacre 
Commemorations took place throughout Georgia to mark the 36th anniversary of the April 9 massacre, during which Soviet forces violently dispersed peaceful protesters. The event remains a symbol of Georgia’s struggle for independence and democracy.  This year’s commemoration took place in a climate of intensified political division, ongoing public opposition to Georgian Dream’s restrictive policies, and growing concerns over the country’s retreat from its European integration course.