Armenia parliamentary elections: exit polls predict Pashinyan victory

Armenia held parliamentary elections with voter turnout rising by nearly 10% compared to 2021, reaching approximately 59%. Exit polls give victory to the ruling Civil Contract party led by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. Supporters of the pro-Russian bloc were arrested on election day.

Armenia's parliamentary elections concluded on 7 June, with voters electing the country's legislative body, the National Assembly. Voter turnout rose by nearly 10 percentage points compared to 2021 elections, reaching approximately 59%, demonstrating Armenians' growing interest in their political future.

Exit polls back Pashinyan

Armenia's election commission released the first official results on the evening of 7 June. Exit polls give victory to the Civil Contract party led by Nikol Pashinyan, but the results of different polls vary and it remains unclear whether the party will secure enough votes to maintain power.

Among the opposition forces, the pro-Russian bloc "Strong Armenia," led by billionaire businessman Samvel Karapetyan who operates in Russia and owns the Tashir construction group, garnered significant support. This was followed by the bloc "Armenia" led by former president Robert Kocharyan, the "Prosperous Armenia" party founded by businessman Gagik Tsarukyan, and "Homeland's Salvation" led by former ombudsman Arman Tatoyan.

Arrests on election day

The election day was marred by arrests of supporters of the pro-Russian bloc. More precise information on the number and circumstances of the arrests will be clarified as results become clear. These events raise questions about the transparency of the elections and the conditions for political competition in a country where geopolitical choices-moving towards Europe versus maintaining close ties with Russia-have become a central election issue.

Armenia's elections take place in a tense international context, as the country has in recent years actively sought rapprochement with the European Union while gradually distancing itself from Russia's sphere of influence. The Pashinyan government's pro-European course has generated sharp opposition from pro-Russian opposition forces.