Armenian church row intensifies ahead of elections

A significant church-state dispute is dividing Armenia as Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has called for the removal of the Armenian Apostolic Church's leader ahead of upcoming elections.

The conflict reflects broader tensions between Pashinyan's government and traditional institutions. Church leaders have resisted calls for leadership changes, creating a constitutional and religious confrontation.

The row carries implications for Armenian stability and EU engagement in the South Caucasus. Given Armenia's strategic importance between Russia and the EU's sphere, institutional divisions may affect the country's geopolitical positioning and democratic stability.