The first anniversary of the Velvet Revolution in Armenia has triggered a flood of media commentaries and evaluations of the achievements of that salutary event. Although it is too early to expect any major changes in the lives of ordinary citizens, anticipation and hopes are very high and the public mood continues to be positive.
One thing which people have realized is that the revolution has to run its course and yield its rewards. There is no alternative course and no room for hesitation.
Under the previous corrupt regime, people were so depressed that they were loath to perform and move the country toward prosperity. Today, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s rating is still high, people breathe easier and therefore are more amenable to making further sacrifices to take the movement closer to achieving its goals.
There is an intangible air of confidence which may yield tangible results. Except for the first year of independence, popular support for the government has never been as strong as it is today. That is one valuable asset which will help the government to shoulder all the challenges that may come its way.
Armenia is not located on an island on which it can recover and develop its economy unhampered.
In assessing the achievements of the revolution, one has to take into account the restrictive parameters within which the new government has to operate.