British Embassy Warden Message

The British Embassy in Yerevan has issued a new warden message following the end of the state of emergency declared after the 1 March clashes between opposition and security forces. Although the situation is calm at present, today’s “silent protest” ostensibly billed as a memorial is instead considered to be the first attempt to gauge the possibility for further opposition protests in Yerevan. The British Embassy advises its citizens in Armenia to avoid such events.

MESSAGE TO BRITISH COMMUNITY – POST-STATE OF EMERGENCY POLITICIAL DEMONSTRATIONS

The State of Emergency declared by the Armenian authorities after the 1 March clashes between police and demonstrators ended on Thursday 20 March.

There is a strong possibility of political demonstrations or incidents in central Yerevan over the next few days. We have heard specific reports of a protest in the form of a human chain from Freedom Square, though Northern Avenue, lower Abovyan St., Republic Square, V. Sargsyan St., Italy St., to the junction with Grigor Lusavorich St., planned for 5-7pm on Friday 21 March. We have also had reports of a womens’ vigil to be held in Freedom Square at 3pm on Friday 21 March.

We advise British citizens to avoid the area of these demonstrations or other demonstrations and large crowds. If it is necessary to be in the vicinity of a demonstration, we urge you to exercise vigilance and caution and at all times, and leave the vicinity as soon as possible. Demonstrations can attract large numbers, and even if intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational.

We advise British citizens to remain vigilant and to keep in touch with local news while this situation continues. We will continue to monitor the situation and will issue updates to the British community as necessary.