Senior officials of Armenia’s National Assembly held a series of meetings on January 26 addressing foreign policy priorities and the internal concerns of Ezidis in Armenia, placing particular emphasis on religious continuity, cultural preservation, and national identity.
The Deputy Chair of the Standing Committee on Protection of Human Rights and Public Affairs, Rustam Bakoyan, met with representatives of Ezidis in Armenia, including members of the Ezidi Spiritual Council, leaders of Ezidi civil organizations, and heads of local administrative districts. The meeting focused on long-standing and emerging challenges related to the protection of Ezidi religious life, the preservation of Ezidi culture, and the safeguarding of Ezidi national identity within the Armenian state framework.
Participants highlighted the importance of institutional support for Ezidi religious structures connected to Sharfadin, as well as the need to strengthen cultural and educational initiatives that ensure continuity across generations. Administrative and representation issues affecting Ezidis at the local level were also discussed, with attention given to coordination between state institutions and Ezidi leadership.
According to those present, Ezidis demonstrated a unified position on the necessity of protecting their religious traditions, cultural heritage, and national presence in Armenia, particularly at a time of increased regional instability affecting minorities across the Middle East.
On the same day, Armenia’s foreign policy agenda was addressed during a separate meeting between Sargis Khandanyan, Chair of the Standing Committee on Foreign Relations of the National Assembly, and a delegation led by US Congressional staff member Lance Kokonos. While primarily focused on Armenia–United States relations, the discussions underscored the broader regional context in which minority protection, stability, and international cooperation remain critical.
The meeting addressed the development of the Armenia–USA strategic partnership and ongoing diplomatic initiatives aimed at regional normalization. These discussions are closely watched by Ezidis, given the direct impact that regional security arrangements and international engagement have on minority populations and displaced peoples.
Ezidis in Armenia represent one of the oldest religious and ethnic groups in the region, with deep historical roots and an established presence in public, cultural, and political life. In recent years, Ezidi leaders have repeatedly emphasized that religious freedom, recognition of Sharfadin, and institutional inclusion are essential not only for cultural survival but also for long-term social stability.
Ezidi Times will continue to monitor developments related to Ezidi rights, representation, and preservation in Armenia and beyond, particularly as regional political shifts increasingly affect indigenous and minority peoples.
