In the next episode of the “Dilemma” podcast, dedicated to security issues, these questions will be analyzed by Dr. Hrachya Arzumanyan, a political scientist and expert on military and security issues; Leonid Nersisyan, a military expert and researcher at APRI Armenia; and Areg Kochinyan, head of the Research Center on Security Policy.
- What reforms are necessary in Armenia’s armed forces?
- Are there skilled professionals within Armenia’s general staff?
- Could involving private military companies be a short-term solution?
- Should the law criminalizing mercenary activities be revoked?
- What structural changes are needed in the army?
Hrachya Arzumanyan
“If you are initiating reforms in Armenia, and if you aim to have an army and a military security system capable of resisting adversaries, you must also consider a shift in military mentality. The Soviet approaches, established over the past 30 years, have left a legacy that requires transformation. Yet, such cultural changes are challenging issues not only for all post-Soviet and socialist countries in general but even globally. You are compelled to change your military culture.”
Leonid Nersisyan
“We must focus on expanding the professional segment of the army, rather than simply ending conscription. In other words, we should strive for professionalism.”
Areg Kochinyan
“We face a challenge of political will, which must be channeled into a coherent direction. Another issue is political organization, which requires the highest level of administrative organization and the implementation of those capabilities within reality, space and time.”
