European Parliament adopts resolution backing Armenia’s democratic resilience, urges release of detainees in Azerbaijan
The European Parliament has adopted a resolution backing Armenia’s democratic resilience and European path, endorsing free and fair elections in June 2026 and calling for the immediate release of Armenian prisoners held in Azerbaijan. The measure passed at a plenary session with 476 votes in favor, 47 against and 48 abstentions.
The resolution supports the holding of free, fair and peaceful parliamentary elections in June 2026, underscoring that results must be determined solely by the Armenian people. It stresses the independence of electoral administration, equal campaigning conditions, media pluralism and the full protection of fundamental freedoms.
It also highlights the need to combat disinformation, illegal financing and vote-buying. Lawmakers welcomed the development of EU–Armenia relations and Armenia’s commitment to democracy, the rule of law and reforms. The text positively assesses the new EU–Armenia strategic agenda, progress in implementing the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA), the visa liberalization dialogue and the Resilience and Growth plan.
It places particular importance on the planned European Political Community summit and the EU–Armenia summit in Yerevan in May 2026, describing them as a significant political signal of solidarity with Armenia. On regional security, the resolution supports the Armenia–Azerbaijan peace process and calls for a comprehensive peace agreement based on sovereignty and the inviolability of borders.
It condemns the detention of Armenian prisoners in Azerbaijan and demands their immediate release. The European Parliament also calls for increased EU financial and technical assistance to Armenia, particularly in energy, digital development and economic resilience.
It welcomes the expansion of the EU monitoring mission and deeper cooperation with civil society. In parallel, the resolution supports the normalization of Armenia–Türkiye relations, including opening borders and advancing regional stability.
The text strongly condemns foreign information manipulation and interference attempts, specifically highlighting the activities of Russia and its influence networks, including cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns. Overall, it emphasizes Armenia’s democratic and sovereign choice, its European trajectory, the pursuit of regional peace and the need to resist external interference.