The Convention of the Future Armenian drew on the best contemporary deliberative practice, combining citizens’ assembly and ‘Town Hall’ models - a novel, hybrid process which we helped to design. The facilitated discussions happened independently, outside of established government institutions. They were also highly productive despite geographical challenges and ongoing conflict. 98% of participants agreed on the respectfulness and impartiality of the facilitation, and 95% agreed that deliberative processes are an effective way of engaging people in decision-making.

Three broad topics were discussed: growing the population, taking historic responsibility for Armenia’s past, and Armenian-Diaspora unity. Stimulated by evidence and balanced opinions prepared by expert committees, participants deliberated on topics including the way that genocide is discussed, causes of emigration, declining birth rates, and the preservation and celebration of Armenian culture.

Attendees proposed 35 initiatives in response. One proposal was to document and list Armenian heritage, to preserve historical sites much like UNESCO. There was also a suggested “coordination council” for creating youth exchanges to Armenia for those living in the diaspora. 

The Future Armenian Initiative has attracted a further 112,000 signatories. There is now a network of influential individuals, businesses and civil society organisations to support the implementation of this and future Conventions’ outcomes and recommendations.

“I am young. I am a patriot, and the topics of our discussions are all within that scope. As a professional economist, I am ready to have my share in the implementation of the decisions of this Convention. I will definitely assist and play my role in that. The discussions are very interactive, and the fact that so many clever people have gathered under one roof bears huge potential for the future.” Ani Arakelyan - participant from Artsakh

Read the report in full.