Edik Baghdasaryan

Hetq Comes to Boston: Independent Journalism and the Future of Democracy in Armenia

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BELMONT, Mass. — This November, Hetq will visit Boston, Massachusetts, for a panel discussion and reception exploring the state of media in Armenia and the vital role independent media — particularly investigative journalism — plays in strengthening democracy and the rule of law. The discussions will also address Armenia’s most pressing challenges and emerging opportunities.

Armenia has faced an unprecedented polarization in recent years, in both media and public discourse. These issues rarely are addressed from multiple perspectives to give a 360-degree view.

An important goal of the visit is to engage with members of the Armenian diaspora, learn how they follow developments in Armenia, understand which sources of information they rely on, and identify what information they need to gain a more comprehensive picture of events in their homeland. The conversations will provide an opportunity to exchange perspectives, strengthen connections, and explore how independent journalism can help bridge the information gap between Armenia and its diaspora.

Founded in 2001, Hetq is Armenia’s leading investigative media outlet, with 25 years of experience in uncovering corruption, abuse of power, misuse of public funds, human rights violations, and environmental crises. Its investigations have contributed to legal proceedings, accountability for wrongdoing, and systemic change. Through its reporting, Hetq has helped shape public debate and influence decision-making in Armenia, while earning recognition and building partnerships internationally.

Beyond investigative reporting, Hetq is committed to strengthening journalism through education. Through the Hetq Media Factory, an educational initiative it established, Hetq trains aspiring journalists in investigative reporting and promotes higher professional standards and quality in Armenian journalism.

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At a time when access to reliable information is essential to understanding Armenia’s political, social, and economic realities, Hetq remains committed to holding those in power accountable and ensuring that issues of public interest are brought to light. The Boston visit is an opportunity to share this work with the diaspora, hear its perspectives and concerns, and strengthen the relationship between independent Armenian journalism and communities abroad.

The panel discussion on “The Role and Current Condition of the Media in Armenia” will take place on Thursday, November 12 at 7:30 p.m. at the National Association for Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR, 395 Concord Avenue, Belmont, Massachusetts) in collaboration with the Armenian Assembly of America, Armenian National Committee of Eastern Massachusetts and the Tekeyan Cultural Association.

Speakers include Edik Baghdasaryan, editor in-chief of Hetq; Aram Arkun, managing editor of the Armenian Mirror-Spectator and Dikran Kaligian, managing editor of the Armenian Review.

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