By Edmond Y. Azadian
Armenia is at a crossroad politically. That state of affairs is reflected also on the community life in the diaspora. Armenians need to harness their resources to meet the worldwide challenges. Yet we are divided more than ever to focus on the burning issues.
The radical opposition in Armenia has toned down its rhetoric, finally realizing the external threats the homeland faces in these trying times. That may be a welcome development, although a little late.
The protocols signed with Turkey have been confusing everybody, allowing some opportunists to score selfish political gains. Many people had been wondering how long life can be sustained in Armenia under the Turkish blockade, and they believed to have discovered some relief in the prospect of open borders with Turkey. Others detect inherent traps in the protocols, that many damage Armenia’s long-term prospects. Very few realize that major powers have come to an accommodation to create stability in the region to tap and apportion its resources and weaker countries, like Armenia, are but mere pawns in their chess game.
The Armenian political parties have been operating under these conditions in the homeland and in the diaspora.
Since the years of the Cold War some balance was established in the diaspora so that no one group could strive for hegemony nor claim undisputed representation. The ADL, admittedly less regimented, played a balancing role, along with the Hunchak party, the AGBU, the churches and the patriotic masses allied spiritually with people in Armenia. The ADL commanded more respect and influence than its resources warranted because of its prudent leadership, its unconditional support of Armenia and the Mother Church.
