Once again, Armenian tabloids have repeated the mining industry's favorite narrative about so-called Azerbaijani agents, targeting local NGOs and activists. The wording of these publications remains unchanged-these fake stories appear simultaneously across tabloids, following a coordinated and uniform narrative.
Ironically, the authors of these fake reports are operating by the rules dictated by Azerbaijani manipulators, merely repeating their false claims. When Azerbaijani sources write about water pollution, they distort the facts and present fabricated accusations.
Similarly, the authors of these fake news stories use and repeat Azerbaijani sources. They fail to disclose the meaning and requirements of international agreements and conventions, ignore Azerbaijan’s gross violations of human rights and environmental norms, and do not examine the actual documents. Instead, they merely echo Azerbaijani propaganda.
These fake news authors also disregard the fact that, unlike Azerbaijan, Armenia has chosen the path of European integration, striving to align its regulations with European policies, which emphasize transparency and accountability, particularly in environmental and climate matters.
Studies on pollution in affected areas are essential for developing regulatory laws in the industrial sector. Our European partners from Czech "Arnika" organization share their expertise, having successfully advocated for state guarantees ensuring access to clean water, uncontaminated soil, and protection from health risks associated with toxic environments.
Civil society organizations working on environmental pollution issues engage directly with communities, assessing the impact of industrial pollution and proposing solutions for cleaning up contaminated areas.
The recommendations developed by "Arnika," "Center for Community Mobilization and Support" NGO, and "EcoLur" Informational NGO, based on joint programs implemented between 2018 and 2025, have been submitted to the relevant ministries and government agencies.
At a time when the global demand for rare metals used in the electronics industry is driving a mining boom, Armenia, as a country rich in these valuable resources, must safeguard its own interests. It should not fall prey to manipulative forces driven by short-term profit motives, leaving the risks and consequences for future generations.
A Final Reminder
To those authors of fake news calling on law enforcement to take action against civil society activists, let us remind you of the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Environmental Defenders, Michel Forst, who stated in his 2025 report under the Aarhus Convention:
"From the perspective of media and political discourse, states must take immediate action to counter narratives that criminalize environmental defenders and their movements. They must publicly acknowledge the vital role of environmental defenders and protect their rights to free expression, peaceful assembly, and association. States must refrain from promoting the idea that peaceful civil disobedience and the resulting infractions constitute violent or criminal acts. Consequently, they should avoid classifying environmental movements engaging in peaceful civil disobedience as criminal organizations."
Chemical Safety Coalition
Member Organizations:
"EcoLur" Informational NGO
"Spitak Helsinki Group" NGO
"Martuni Women's Community Council" NGO
"Healthy Hrazdan" Civil Initiative
"Center for Community Mobilization and Support " NGO
"New Horizons" NGO
"Green Change" NGO
"Successful Woman" Youth NGO
"Public Oversight" NGO
"Green Armenia" Environmental NGO
"Bayazet Center" NGO
"CinemArt" Youth NGO
"Civic Youth Center" NGO
"Direct Democracy" NGO
"Healthy Environment" NGO
"Armash" Rural Community Support and Development Center NGO
March 14, 2025 at 18:03