{{Short description|Protests that led to Prime Minister Serzh Sargsyan's resignation}} {{Expand Armenian|Բողոքի ցույցեր ընդդեմ Սերժ Սարգսյանի|date=April 2018}} {{Use dmy dates|date=April 2020}} {{Infobox civil conflict | title = 2018 Armenian Revolution (Velvet Revolution) | partof = | image = April 22 yerevan republic square protest.jpg | caption = Protest in [[Republic Square, Yerevan]], 22 April 2018 | date = {{start and end dates|df=y|2018|03|31|2018|05|08}}<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.latimes.com/world/europe/la-fg-armenia-election-20180507-story.html|date=7 May 2018|website=[[Los Angeles Times]]|title=Armenia contemplates the unlikely: a nonviolent revolution on the cusp of victory|access-date=20 February 2020|archive-date=8 January 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200108231535/https://www.latimes.com/world/europe/la-fg-armenia-election-20180507-story.html|url-status=live}}</ref><br />({{Age in years, months, weeks and days|year1=2018|month1=3|day1=31|year2=2018|month2=5|day2=8}}) | place = [[Armenia]]<br />[[Armenian diaspora]]: [[Los Angeles]], [[Glendale, California]],<ref>{{cite news|title=Thousands of SoCal Armenians protest election results in their homeland|url=http://abc7.com/politics/socal-armenians-protest-election-results-in-their-homeland/3380671/|agency=[[KABC-TV]]|date=23 April 2018|access-date=23 April 2018|archive-date=12 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112023017/https://abc7.com/politics/socal-armenians-protest-election-results-in-their-homeland/3380671/|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Moscow]],<ref>{{cite news|title=В Москве у армянской церкви прошла акция в поддержку протестов в Ереване. Митингующих задержали|url=https://meduza.io/news/2018/04/22/v-moskve-u-armyanskoy-tserkvi-zaderzhali-mitinguyuschih-oni-ustroili-aktsiyu-v-podderzhku-protestov-v|work=[[meduza]]|date=22 April 2018|language=ru|access-date=23 April 2018|archive-date=29 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200929181202/https://meduza.io/news/2018/04/22/v-moskve-u-armyanskoy-tserkvi-zaderzhali-mitinguyuschih-oni-ustroili-aktsiyu-v-podderzhku-protestov-v|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Milan]], [[Marseille]],<ref>{{cite news|last1=Ghukasyan|first1=Seda|title=Yerevan: "Reject Serzh" Rally Kicks-Off in Republic Square; March To Baghramyan Avenue|url=http://hetq.am/eng/news/87558/yerevan-reject-serzh-rally-kicks-off-in-republic-square.html|work=[[Hetq]]|date=18 April 2018|quote=He claimed that protesters had removed a photo of Serzh Sargsyan hanging in the Armenian Consulate in Marseille and publicly burnt it.|access-date=23 April 2018|archive-date=12 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612144838/http://hetq.am/eng/news/87558/yerevan-reject-serzh-rally-kicks-off-in-republic-square.html|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Toronto]], [[Montreal]], [[Sochi]], [[Brussels]], [[Vancouver]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rcinet.ca/en/2018/04/23/canada-applauds-courage-of-armenian-protesters|title=Canada 'applauds' courage of Armenian protesters|first=Radio Canada|last=International|date=23 April 2018|publisher=rcinet.ca|access-date=28 April 2018|archive-date=29 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181029064848/http://www.rcinet.ca/en/2018/04/23/canada-applauds-courage-of-armenian-protesters/|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Athens]], [[London]], [[Berlin]], [[Buenos Aires]], [[Chicago]], [[São Paulo]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://hetq.am/eng/news/87689/yerevans-velvet-revolution-rally-pashinyan-calls-sargsyan-a-political-corpse.html|title=Yerevan's 'Velvet Revolution' Rally: Pashinyan Calls Sargsyan a "Political Corpse"|last=International|date=20 April 2018|publisher=rcinet.ca|access-date=2 May 2018|archive-date=12 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612143820/http://hetq.am/eng/news/87689/yerevans-velvet-revolution-rally-pashinyan-calls-sargsyan-a-political-corpse.html|url-status=live}}</ref> | causes = * Re-election of [[Serzh Sargsyan]] as the [[Prime Minister of Armenia|Prime Minister]] * Detention of opposition leaders<ref>{{cite news|title=Armenia: Negotiations Fail, Opposition Leaders Detained, Protesters Increase in Numbers|url=https://armenianweekly.com/2018/04/22/armenia-negotiations-fail-opposition-leaders-detained-protesters-increase-in-numbers-2/|work=[[Armenian Weekly]]|date=22 April 2018|access-date=23 April 2018|archive-date=29 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200929180342/https://armenianweekly.com/2018/04/22/armenia-negotiations-fail-opposition-leaders-detained-protesters-increase-in-numbers-2/|url-status=live}}</ref> | goals = Originally: Resignation of [[Serzh Sargsyan]] as PM<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rferl.org/a/armenia-fresh-protests-sarkisian-yerevan-pashinian/29186416.html|title=Armenian PM Sarkisian Resigns After Protest Leader Pashinian Released|website=RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty|access-date=23 April 2018|archive-date=13 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190413215131/https://www.rferl.org/a/armenia-fresh-protests-sarkisian-yerevan-pashinian/29186416.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Later added: * Snap elections to the [[National Assembly (Armenia)|National Assembly]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.rferl.org/a/armenia-fresh-protests-sarkisian-yerevan-pashinian/29186416.html|title=Thousands Celebrate As Armenia's Longtime Ruler Sarkisian Steps Down|newspaper=Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty|date=24 April 2018|access-date=23 April 2018|archive-date=13 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190413215131/https://www.rferl.org/a/armenia-fresh-protests-sarkisian-yerevan-pashinian/29186416.html|url-status=live}}</ref> * Removal of the Republican Party from power<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rbc.ru/politics/25/04/2018/5ae0c5ae9a794752c5485fdf|title=Пашинян потребовал "единогласной капитуляции" правящей партии Армении|website=РБК|date=25 April 2018 |access-date=25 April 2018|archive-date=30 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200930181712/https://www.rbc.ru/politics/25/04/2018/5ae0c5ae9a794752c5485fdf|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="auto3">{{cite news|url=https://www.rferl.org/a/armenian-opposition-leader-pashinian-calls-for-renewed-protests-after-negotiation-karapetian-cancelled-hhk/29190858.html|title=Pashinian Claims Armenian Ruling Party Defections, Warns PM|newspaper=Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty|date=25 April 2018|access-date=25 April 2018|archive-date=25 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180425070828/https://www.rferl.org/a/armenian-opposition-leader-pashinian-calls-for-renewed-protests-after-negotiation-karapetian-cancelled-hhk/29190858.html|url-status=live}}</ref> * Appointment of Pashinyan as interim prime minister until snap elections are held<ref name="rbc.ru">{{cite web|url=https://www.rbc.ru/politics/26/04/2018/5ae0f4129a794760e47036d0|title=Пашинян пообещал не прекращать протесты до назначения премьером Армении|website=РБК|date=26 April 2018 |access-date=26 April 2018|archive-date=31 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180531112601/https://www.rbc.ru/politics/26/04/2018/5ae0f4129a794760e47036d0|url-status=live}}</ref> | methods = [[Political demonstration|Demonstrations]], [[sit-in]]s, [[student protest]], [[civil disobedience]], [[online activism]], [[boycott]]s of business, [[general strike]] | result = Protesters victory * Resignation of Serzh Sargsyan * Republican Party decided to not put forward candidate in votes for new Prime Minister on 1 and 8 May<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.rferl.org/a/armenian-opposition-leader-pashinian-calls-for-protests-to-continue/29198782.html|title=Armenia's Pashinian Optimistic As Yerevan Protests Continue|newspaper=Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty|date=30 April 2018|access-date=29 April 2018|archive-date=30 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180430094415/https://www.rferl.org/a/armenian-opposition-leader-pashinian-calls-for-protests-to-continue/29198782.html|url-status=live}}</ref> * Election of [[Nikol Pashinyan]] as the Prime Minister<ref name="auto4">{{Cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/may/08/hes-not-a-populist-hes-popular-nikol-pashinyan-becomes-armenian-pm|title='He's not a populist, he's popular': Nikol Pashinyan becomes Armenian PM|last=Roth|first=Andrew|date=2018-05-08|website=the Guardian|language=en|access-date=2018-05-08|archive-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130112645/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/may/08/hes-not-a-populist-hes-popular-nikol-pashinyan-becomes-armenian-pm|url-status=live}}</ref> | side1 = {{flagdeco|ARM}} '''Political opposition''' * {{flagicon image|Civil Contract Armenia flag.svg}} [[Civil Contract (Armenia)|Civil Contract]] ''Supported by:'' * [[Way Out Alliance]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.armradio.am/en/2018/04/16/opposition-mp-nikol-pashinyan-discharged-from-hospital-joins-protesters/|title=Opposition MP Nikol Pashinyan discharged from hospital, joins protesters|access-date=16 April 2018|archive-date=18 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180618125615/http://www.armradio.am/en/2018/04/16/opposition-mp-nikol-pashinyan-discharged-from-hospital-joins-protesters/|url-status=live}}</ref> * [[Sasna Tsrer Pan-Armenian Party]]<ref>{{Cite web|title=Himnadir.am|url=http://himnadir.am/%D5%AA%D5%AB%D6%80%D5%A1%D5%B5%D6%80-%D5%BD%D5%A7%D6%86%D5%AB%D5%AC%D5%B5%D5%A1%D5%B6%D5%AB-%D6%87-%D5%BD%D5%A1%D5%BD%D5%B6%D5%A1-%D5%AE%D5%BC%D5%A5%D6%80%D5%AB-%D5%B0%D5%A1%D5%B5%D5%BF%D5%A1%D6%80-2/|access-date=15 December 2018|archive-date=24 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190324223626/http://himnadir.am/%D5%AA%D5%AB%D6%80%D5%A1%D5%B5%D6%80-%D5%BD%D5%A7%D6%86%D5%AB%D5%AC%D5%B5%D5%A1%D5%B6%D5%AB-%D6%87-%D5%BD%D5%A1%D5%BD%D5%B6%D5%A1-%D5%AE%D5%BC%D5%A5%D6%80%D5%AB-%D5%B0%D5%A1%D5%B5%D5%BF%D5%A1%D6%80-2/|url-status=dead}}</ref> * {{symbol|Anc logo.PNG}} [[Armenian National Congress]]<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29185545.html |title=Huge Crowds Keep Up Pressure On Armenian PM |website=«Ազատ Եվրոպա/Ազատություն» ռադիոկայան |date=22 April 2018 |access-date=10 December 2018 |last1=Aslanian |first1=Karlen |archive-date=23 April 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180423102226/https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29185545.html |url-status=live }}</ref> * [[Free Democrats (Armenia)|Free Democrats]]<ref name="auto">{{Cite web|url=http://www.aravot-en.am/2018/04/04/209928/|title=Dilemma of quick defeat and long-term but inevitable victory &#124; www.aravot-en.am|access-date=16 April 2018|archive-date=10 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200910171334/https://www.aravot-en.am/2018/04/04/209928/|url-status=live}}</ref> * [[National Democratic Pole]] * [[Prosperous Armenia]] (since 23 April) * {{flagicon image|Armenian Revolutionary Federation Flag.svg}} [[Armenian Revolutionary Federation]] (since 28 April) ''Non-political groups:'' * {{symbol|12brigadaArmenii.png}} [[12th Peacekeeping Brigade]] (23 April)<ref>{{cite news|title=Unarmed soldiers join anti-government protests in Armenia|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-armenia-politics-protests-army/unarmed-soldiers-join-anti-government-protests-in-armenia-idUSKBN1HU15U|work=[[Reuters]]|date=23 April 2018|access-date=4 May 2018|archive-date=10 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220110092925/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-armenia-politics-protests-army/unarmed-soldiers-join-anti-government-protests-in-armenia-idUSKBN1HU15U|url-status=live}}</ref> | side2 = {{flagdeco|ARM}} '''[[Government of Armenia|Armenian government]]''' * {{symbol|Armenian police logo.png}} [[Police of the Republic of Armenia|Police]] * {{symbol|National Security Service of the Republic of Armenia.png}} [[National Security Service (Armenia)|National Security Service]] * Organized crime and oligarchs<ref>{{cite news|title=Pashinyan to Negotiate with Authorities 'on Behalf of People' (Live Thread)|url=http://epress.am/en/2018/04/21/thousands-reconvene-anti-government-protests-across-armenia-dozens-detained-live-thread.html|work=epress.am|date=21 April 2018|quote=Samvel Aleksanyan, a local oligarch close to Serzh Sargsyan, is personally fighting demonstrators in Malatia district. In a video published on Facebook, Aleksanyan is seen kicking a protester who is then forcibly put into a car.|access-date=23 April 2018|archive-date=25 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180825034022/http://epress.am/en/2018/04/21/thousands-reconvene-anti-government-protests-across-armenia-dozens-detained-live-thread.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Atanesian|first1=Grigor|title=Thousands of protesters shut down Armenia's capital, dozens injured in clashes|url=https://eurasianet.org/s/thousands-of-protesters-shut-down-armenias-capital-dozens-injured-in-clashes|work=[[eurasianet]]|date=16 April 2018|access-date=23 April 2018|archive-date=25 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180825084419/https://eurasianet.org/s/thousands-of-protesters-shut-down-armenias-capital-dozens-injured-in-clashes|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Nikol Pashinyan Called on Oligarchs Not to Involve Their Bodyguards|url=http://www.lragir.am/index/eng/0/country/68553/38152|work=lragir.am|date=16 April 2018|access-date=26 April 2018|archive-date=30 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180430050514/http://www.lragir.am/index/eng/0/country/68553/38152|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Political parties:'' * [[Republican Party of Armenia]] * {{flagicon image|Armenian Revolutionary Federation Flag.svg}} [[Armenian Revolutionary Federation]] (until 25 April) | leadfigures1 = {{flagdeco|ARM}}[[File:Civil Contract Armenia flag.svg|22px|border]] [[Nikol Pashinyan]] MP (detained from 22 to 23 April)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://panarmenian.net/m/rus/news/254618|title=Арестованный лидер армянской оппозиции вышел на свободу|website=panarmenian.net|access-date=23 April 2018|archive-date=24 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180424071426/http://panarmenian.net/m/rus/news/254618|url-status=live}}</ref> | leadfigures2 = {{flagdeco|ARM}} [[Serzh Sargsyan]] (ex-president, resigned Prime Minister)<br /> {{flagdeco|ARM}} [[Karen Karapetyan]] (ex-prime Minister, acting Prime minister) | howmany1 = ;Yerevan: * 250,000 (1 May)<ref>{{cite news|title=Armenia's revolution continues, as its opposition leader nears power|url=https://www.economist.com/news/europe/21741570-russia-seems-sensibly-wary-interfering-armenias-revolution-continues-its-opposition-leader|newspaper=[[The Economist]]|date=3 May 2018|access-date=4 May 2018|archive-date=15 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180515042704/https://www.economist.com/news/europe/21741570-russia-seems-sensibly-wary-interfering-armenias-revolution-continues-its-opposition-leader|url-status=live}}</ref> * 200,000 (23 April)<ref>{{cite news|last1=Weiss|first1=Clara|title=Armenian prime minister resigns after mass protests|url=https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2018/04/25/arme-a25.html|work=[[World Socialist Web Site]]|date=25 April 2018|access-date=30 April 2018|archive-date=19 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211119235845/https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2018/04/25/arme-a25.html|url-status=live}}</ref> * 150,000 (2 May)<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/europe/armenias-pro-democracy-movement-defiant-in-face-of-parliament-rejection/2018/05/02/dbb57c0a-4de7-11e8-84a0-458a1aa9ac0a_story.html|title=Armenia's pro-democracy leader tells his jubilant followers they can ease up|last=Ferris-Rotman|first=Amie|date=2018-05-02|newspaper=Washington Post|access-date=2018-05-05|language=en-US|issn=0190-8286|archive-date=22 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200922161058/https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/europe/armenias-pro-democracy-movement-defiant-in-face-of-parliament-rejection/2018/05/02/dbb57c0a-4de7-11e8-84a0-458a1aa9ac0a_story.html|url-status=live}}</ref> * 115,000 (22 April)<ref>{{cite news|last1=Kucera|first1=Joshua|title=Armenian opposition leader arrested, but protesters rally|url=https://eurasianet.org/s/armenian-opposition-leader-arrested-but-protesters-rally|work=[[eurasianet]]|date=22 April 2018|access-date=24 April 2018|archive-date=25 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180825084317/https://eurasianet.org/s/armenian-opposition-leader-arrested-but-protesters-rally|url-status=live}}</ref>

;Gyumri: * 10,000 (27 April)<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.rferl.org/a/pashinian-vows-no-geopolitical-reversals-thousands-show-support-gyumri-russian-military-base/29197219.html|title=Armenian Ruling Party Won't Nominate PM Candidate; Pashinian Rallies Support|newspaper=Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty|date=29 April 2018|access-date=28 April 2018|archive-date=26 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210826172723/https://www.rferl.org/a/pashinian-vows-no-geopolitical-reversals-thousands-show-support-gyumri-russian-military-base/29197219.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

;Glendale, California: * 5,000<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://abc7.com/politics/socal-armenians-protest-election-results-in-their-homeland/3380671/|title=SoCal Armenians protest election results in their homeland|last=about|first=Melissa MacBride, bio|date=23 April 2018|work=ABC7 Los Angeles|access-date=23 April 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=12 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112023017/https://abc7.com/politics/socal-armenians-protest-election-results-in-their-homeland/3380671/|url-status=live}}</ref> | howmany2 = | casualties1 = 40 injured including [[Nikol Pashinyan]]<ref name="auto1">{{Cite web|url=http://www.armradio.am/hy/2018/04/16/an-3/|title=Հոսպիտալացվել է 46 քաղաքացի, այդ թվում՝ 6 ոստիկան|language=hy|access-date=16 April 2018|archive-date=16 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180416200933/http://www.armradio.am/hy/2018/04/16/an-3/|url-status=live}}</ref> | casualties2 = 6 policemen injured (on 16 April)<ref name="auto1"/> | casualties_label = Injuries }}

The '''2018 Armenian Revolution''', most commonly known in [[Armenia]] as '''#MerzhirSerzhin''' ({{langx|hy|#ՄերժիրՍերժին|4=#RejectSerzh}}), was a series of anti-government [[protest]]s in Armenia from April to May 2018 staged by various political and civil groups led by a member of the Armenian parliament – [[Nikol Pashinyan]] (head of the [[Civil Contract (Armenia)|Civil Contract]] party). Protests and marches took place initially in response to [[Serzh Sargsyan]]'s third consecutive term as the most powerful figure in the government of Armenia, later broadening against the ruling [[Republican Party of Armenia|Republican Party]], who were in power since 1999. Pashinyan declared it a '''Velvet Revolution''' ({{langx|hy|Թավշյա հեղափոխություն|translit=T'avshya heghap'vokhut'yun|label=none}}).<ref>{{cite web|title="Velvet Revolution" Takes Armenia into the Unknown|url=https://www.crisisgroup.org/europe-central-asia/caucasus/armenia/velvet-revolution-takes-armenia-unknown|publisher=[[Crisis Group]]|date=26 April 2018|access-date=27 April 2018|archive-date=17 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210817234731/https://www.crisisgroup.org/europe-central-asia/caucasus/armenia/velvet-revolution-takes-armenia-unknown|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29184071.html|title=«Մերժիր Սերժին» նախաձեռնության համակարգողներից Արմեն Գրիգորյանը ձերբակալվել է|first=Նաիրա|last=Բուլղադարյան|work=«Ազատ Եվրոպա/Ազատություն» ռադիոկայան |date=21 April 2018|via=www.azatutyun.am}}</ref>

On April 22, Pashinyan was arrested and held in solitary confinement overnight, then released on April 23, the same day that Sargsyan resigned, saying "I was wrong, while Nikol Pashinyan was right".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.rbc.ru/politics/23/04/2018/5addcf479a79476dc2d8c48d?from=main|title=Премьер-министр Армении Саргсян подал в отставку|website=РБК|date=23 April 2018 |access-date=23 April 2018|archive-date=11 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180911193423/https://www.rbc.ru/politics/23/04/2018/5addcf479a79476dc2d8c48d?from=main|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://armenianweekly.com/2018/04/23/breaking-serge-sarkisian-resigns-as-prime-minister/|title=Breaking: Serge Sarkisian Resigns as Prime Minister|last=Hairenik|date=23 April 2018|work=The Armenian Weekly|access-date=23 April 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=24 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224184816/https://armenianweekly.com/2018/04/23/breaking-serge-sarkisian-resigns-as-prime-minister/|url-status=live}}</ref> The event is referred to by some as a [[peaceful revolution]] akin to [[Colour revolution|revolutions in other post-Soviet states]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/view/articles/2018-04-23/armenia-s-revolution-is-a-lesson-for-putin|title=Armenia's Peaceful Revolution Is a Lesson for Putin|date=23 April 2018|work=Bloomberg.com|access-date=24 April 2018|language=en|archive-date=25 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180425032531/https://www.bloomberg.com/view/articles/2018-04-23/armenia-s-revolution-is-a-lesson-for-putin|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.unian.info/world/10092863-armenian-revolution-russian-influence-to-remain-amid-power-shift.html|title=Armenian Revolution: Russian influence to remain amid power shift|access-date=24 April 2018|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180710191826/https://www.unian.info/world/10092863-armenian-revolution-russian-influence-to-remain-amid-power-shift.html|archive-date=10 July 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.rferl.org/a/armenia-mass-protests-echo-previous-post-soviet-upheavals-colored-revolutions/29189559.html|title=A 'Color Revolution' In Armenia? Mass Protests Echo Previous Post-Soviet Upheavals|newspaper=Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty|date=24 April 2018|language=en|access-date=24 April 2018|last1=Eckel|first1=Mike|archive-date=25 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180425032122/https://www.rferl.org/a/armenia-mass-protests-echo-previous-post-soviet-upheavals-colored-revolutions/29189559.html|url-status=live}}</ref> By the evening of April 25, the Republican Party's coalition partner, the [[Armenian Revolutionary Federation]], had withdrawn from the coalition.<ref name="auto3"/>

By April 28, all of the opposition parties in Armenia's parliament had announced they would support Pashinyan's candidacy.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rbc.ru/rbcfreenews/5ae4a00a9a7947e332f31b35|title=Кандидатуру Пашиняна решили поддержать три партии из парламента Армении|website=РБК|date=28 April 2018 |access-date=28 April 2018|archive-date=26 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210526031206/https://www.rbc.ru/rbcfreenews/5ae4a00a9a7947e332f31b35|url-status=live}}</ref> A vote was scheduled in the [[National Assembly (Armenia)|National Assembly]] for May 1; for Pashinyan to be elected prime minister, which required 53 votes, he would have had to win the votes of at least six members of the Republican Party.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.rferl.org/a/armenian-opposition-leader-pashinian-calls-for-protests-to-continue/29198782.html|title=Armenian Opposition Leader Pashinyan Nominated As PM Candidate|newspaper=Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty|date=30 April 2018|language=en|access-date=30 April 2018|archive-date=30 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180430094415/https://www.rferl.org/a/armenian-opposition-leader-pashinian-calls-for-protests-to-continue/29198782.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Pashinyan was the only candidate who was put forward for the vote.<ref>[https://www.rferl.org/a/armenian-protest-leader-pashinian-only-candidate-for-premier/29200914.html Armenian Protest Leader Pashinian Only Candidate For Premier] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211129191422/https://www.rferl.org/a/armenian-protest-leader-pashinian-only-candidate-for-premier/29200914.html |date=29 November 2021 }}, rferl.org; accessed 30 April 2018.</ref> However, the Republican Party unanimously voted against Pashinyan – 102 MPs were present, out of which 56 voted against his candidacy and 45 voted for it.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rbc.ru/politics/01/05/2018/5ae85ad19a794783f11f7ac8|title=Парламент проголосовал против Пашиняна на выборах премьера Армении|website=РБК|date=May 2018 |access-date=10 December 2018|archive-date=11 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180711050817/https://www.rbc.ru/politics/01/05/2018/5ae85ad19a794783f11f7ac8|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://panarmenian.net/m/eng/news/254991|title=PanARMENIAN.Net – Mobile|website=panarmenian.net|access-date=2018-05-08|archive-date=2 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180502064542/http://panarmenian.net/m/eng/news/254991|url-status=live}}</ref> One week later, on May 8, the second vote took place. Pashinyan was elected prime minister with 59 votes.<ref name="auto4"/><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-armenia-politics-idUSKBN1I90UD|title=Revolution sweeps Armenian opposition leader into power|date=8 May 2018|access-date=10 December 2018|via=www.reuters.com|newspaper=Reuters|archive-date=11 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181211052826/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-armenia-politics-idUSKBN1I90UD|url-status=live}}</ref>

The revolution was seen as an opportunity for Armenia to realign its foreign policy in the [[Europe]]an direction. The revolution contradicted Russian policy, as it opposed the notion of the irreplaceability of [[Post-Soviet states|post-Soviet]] leaders and posed a threat to authoritarianism in the post-Soviet space. The revolution in Armenia was deemed "European" in nature as it corresponded to [[European values]] and principles, both societal and political.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.1in.am/2373166.html|title=Nikol Pashinyan's Russian threats and European opportunities|website=1in.am|access-date=13 April 2023|archive-date=11 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230411182853/https://www.1in.am/2373166.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The revolution signaled a significant shift in Armenia's domestic politics, with [[pro-Russian]] politicians being ousted from power and a reformist government taking their place. The change brought about a revaluation of Armenia's [[Armenia–Russia relations|relations with Russia]]. The reformist government sought to distance itself from Russia's aggressive tactics and realign Armenia with the Western values of democracy and human rights.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ankasam.org/armenias-eu-candidacy-a-departure-from-moscows-sphere-of-influence/?lang=en|title=Armenia's EU Candidacy: A Departure from Moscow's Sphere of Influence|website=ankasam.org|date=20 March 2024 |access-date=24 March 2024}}</ref>

==Preceding situation== {{See also|Corruption in Armenia}} Between 2012 and 2017, reported levels of trust in the national government were at 25%, while confidence in the [[Judiciary of Armenia|judicial system]] was at 29%, figures which were below all of Armenia's neighbouring countries at the time.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://hdr.undp.org/sites/default/files/2018_human_development_statistical_update.pdf|title=HUMAN DEVELOPMENT INDICES AND INDICATORS: 2018 STATISTICAL UPDATE|access-date=2 December 2019|archive-date=17 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180917071517/http://hdr.undp.org/sites/default/files/2018_human_development_statistical_update.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Nomination of Sargsyan for the post of Prime Minister== Demonstrations and protests began in March 2018, when members of the [[Republican Party (Armenia)|Republican Party]] did not exclude the option of nominating [[Serzh Sargsyan]] for the prime minister's post.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29079492.html|title="Հնարավոր է Սերժ Սարգսյանը դառնա վարչապետ". Շարմազանով|website=«Ազատ Եվրոպա/Ազատություն» ռադիոկայան|date=5 March 2018|language=hy|access-date=8 April 2018|last1=ռ/կ|first1=Ազատություն|archive-date=14 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180414234722/https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29079492.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://news.am/eng/news/440123.html|title=Armenia Parliament ex-speaker: I'm sure Serzh Sargsyan will be PM|website=news.am|access-date=8 April 2018|archive-date=8 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180308130818/https://news.am/eng/news/440123.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://henaran.am/348115.html|title=Ես կհամոզեմ Սերժ Սարգսյանին. գեներալ (տեսանյութ)|newspaper=1in.am|access-date=8 April 2018|archive-date=7 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180507031926/http://henaran.am/348115.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29034439.html|title="Պատրաստ եմ վարչապետի պաշտոնում առաջադրել Սերժ Սարգսյանի թեկնածությունը". Արմեն Աշոտյան|website=«Ազատ Եվրոպա/Ազատություն» ռադիոկայան|date=12 February 2018|language=hy|access-date=8 April 2018|last1=ռ/կ|first1=Ազատություն|archive-date=14 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180414234712/https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29034439.html|url-status=live}}</ref> This meant a continuation of Sargsyan's rule (as either prime minister or president) since March 2007. He had [[2015 Armenian constitutional referendum|amended the constitution]] in 2015 to remove term limits which would have prevented him doing this.<ref>[http://vestnikkavkaza.net/news/Who-needs-parliamentary-republic-in-Armenia.html Who needs parliamentary republic in Armenia?] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127164527/http://vestnikkavkaza.net/news/Who-needs-parliamentary-republic-in-Armenia.html |date=27 November 2020 }} ''Vestnik Kavkaza'', 5 October 2015</ref>

Protesters had vowed to block the party's headquarters on April 14, where leaders were going to gather to formally nominate Serzh Sargsyan for prime minister. The Republican Party held its meeting outside of the capital [[Yerevan]] and unanimously voted to formally nominate Serzh Sargsyan for the office of [[Prime Minister of Armenia|prime minister]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite news|url=https://eurasianet.org/s/sargsyan-officially-nominated-for-office-amid-continuing-protests|title=Sargsyan officially nominated for office amid continuing protests|access-date=16 April 2018|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180422055103/https://eurasianet.org/s/sargsyan-officially-nominated-for-office-amid-continuing-protests|archive-date=22 April 2018|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref> The coalition partner, the [[Armenian Revolutionary Federation]], supported the ruling Republican Party's decision, as did most of the opposition [[Prosperous Armenia]] party caucus.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.tert.am/en/news/2018/04/15/arfd/2663182|title=ARF-D backs decision to nominate Serzh Sargsyan for prime minister|website=tert.am|access-date=16 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180911225119/http://www.tert.am/en/news/2018/04/15/arfd/2663182|archive-date=11 September 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref>

Meanwhile, the [[Way Out Alliance]] emerged as a [[Pro-Europeanism|pro-European]] and [[Anti-Russian sentiment|anti-Russian]] political alliance, which actively participated in street protests supporting Nikol Pashinyan following Serzh Sargsyan's nomination for prime minister. The alliance believed that Sargsyan was largely controlled by Moscow and labelled him a 'dictator' who rigged elections. Noting the rise of anti-Russian sentiments in the country, the alliance called for Armenia to develop closer ties with the [[European Union]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://epress.am/2018/04/18/%D4%BA%D5%A1%D5%B4%D5%A1%D5%B6%D5%A1%D5%AF%D5%A1%D5%AF%D5%AB%D6%81-%D5%80%D5%A1%D5%B5%D5%A1%D5%BD%D5%BF%D5%A1%D5%B6%D5%AB-%D5%B0%D5%AB%D5%B4%D5%B6%D5%A1%D5%AF%D5%A1%D5%B6-%D5%BA%D5%A1%D6%80%D5%A1.html|title =The main paradox of modern Armenia|date =18 April 2018}}</ref>

==Protests 2018== [[File:Ցուցարարները ռադիոտա դիմաց.jpg|left|thumb|Protests on 14 April 2018]] On March 31, 2018, Nikol Pashinyan began his Im Qayl (my step) protest walk, starting in the city of [[Gyumri]], and walking through cities and towns such as [[Vanadzor]], [[Dilijan]], [[Hrazdan]], and [[Abovyan]], before finally reaching Yerevan on April 13 and holding a small rally.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.panorama.am/am/news/2018/03/31/%D5%93%D5%A1%D5%B7%D5%AB%D5%B6%D5%B5%D5%A1%D5%B6-%D6%84%D5%A1%D5%B5%D5%AC%D5%A1%D6%80%D5%B7%D5%A1%D5%BE/1927396|title=Նիկոլ Փաշինյանը հայտարարեց 14-օրյա քայլարշավ սկսելու մասին|first=Helix Consulting|last=LLC|website=www.panorama.am|access-date=10 September 2018|archive-date=21 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191221164222/https://www.panorama.am/am/news/2018/03/31/%D5%93%D5%A1%D5%B7%D5%AB%D5%B6%D5%B5%D5%A1%D5%B6-%D6%84%D5%A1%D5%B5%D5%AC%D5%A1%D6%80%D5%B7%D5%A1%D5%BE/1927396|url-status=live}}</ref>

About 100 protesters stayed overnight in France Square after the first day of protests, and an equal number did the same on Saturday night, some sleeping in tents, others gathered around fires. By Sunday morning, the [[Police of Armenia|Armenian police]] had made no effort to disrupt the demonstrations.<ref name=":0" />

On Monday April 16, the "Take a Step, Reject Serzh" campaign began actions of civil&nbsp;disobedience. On April 17, the day that the prime minister's election was scheduled, the protesters intended to block&nbsp;entrances to the building of the [[National Assembly (Armenia)|National Assembly]] in order to&nbsp;prevent the vote from taking place.<ref>{{cite web |title=Armenia crisis: Protesters bring cities to standstill after vote |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-43969592 |publisher=BBC |date=2 May 2018 |access-date=2 May 2018 |archive-date=30 May 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180530172510/http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-43969592 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://arminfo.info/full_news.php?id=30345&lang=3|title=Arminfo: Armenian opposition continues protests against Serzh Sargsyan's&nbsp; premiership|access-date=16 April 2018|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181118094942/http://arminfo.info/full_news.php?id=30345&lang=3|archive-date=18 November 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref> Lines of riot police stopped them from advancing further towards the National Assembly building.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.aravot-en.am/2018/04/16/210591|title=More Streets In Yerevan Blocked By Hundreds Opposition Protesters|website=aravot-en.am|access-date=30 April 2018|archive-date=17 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180417023050/http://www.aravot-en.am/2018/04/16/210591/|url-status=live}}</ref>

After the election of the former president Serzh Sargsyan as the new prime minister, the protests continued to grow, despite hundreds of people being detained by police.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29180978.html|title=Armenian Police Struggle To Contain Continuing Protests|website=«Ազատ Եվրոպա/Ազատություն» ռադիոկայան|language=hy|access-date=22 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180621070101/https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29180978.html|archive-date=21 June 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29183967.html|title=More People Detained In Anti-Sarkisian Protests|website=«Ազատ Եվրոպա/Ազատություն» ռադիոկայան|language=hy|access-date=22 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180621093457/https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29183967.html|archive-date=21 June 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref> The prime minister in response asked the government to take back the presidential mansion which it had given him a few weeks earlier.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29177553.html|title=Sarkisian Gives Up Ownership Of Official Residence|website=«Ազատ Եվրոպա/Ազատություն» ռադիոկայան|date=19 April 2018|language=hy|access-date=22 April 2018|last1=ռ/կ|first1=Ազատություն|archive-date=23 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180423023254/https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29177553.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The crowds reached 50,000<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/europe/armenia-protests-70-arrested-including-2-suspected-bombers/2018/04/21/4329a64c-4562-11e8-b2dc-b0a403e4720a_story.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180421153401/https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/europe/armenia-protests-70-arrested-including-2-suspected-bombers/2018/04/21/4329a64c-4562-11e8-b2dc-b0a403e4720a_story.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=21 April 2018|title=Armenia protests: 70 arrested, including 2 suspected bombers|agency=Associated Press|date=21 April 2018|newspaper=Washington Post|access-date=22 April 2018|language=en-US|issn=0190-8286}}</ref> on the night of April 21, with countless sporadic street closures in the capital, which also began to spread across the country.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://hetq.am/eng/news/87733/armenia-protesters-shut-down-noyemberyan-bagratashen-highway.html|title=Armenia: Protesters Shut Down Noyemberyan-Bagratashen Highway – Hetq – News, Articles, Investigations|access-date=22 April 2018|language=en|archive-date=25 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180425045036/http://hetq.am/eng/news/87733/armenia-protesters-shut-down-noyemberyan-bagratashen-highway.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

As the crowds grew, the new prime minister called repeatedly for talks with the leader of the protest movement, Nikol Pashinyan, but Pashinyan said he was only willing to discuss the terms of the Prime Minister's resignation.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29183714.html|title=Armenian PM Wants Urgent Talks With Protest Leader|website=«Ազատ Եվրոպա/Ազատություն» ռադիոկայան|date=21 April 2018|language=hy|access-date=22 April 2018|last1=Aslanian|first1=Karlen|archive-date=22 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180422202038/https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29183714.html|url-status=live}}</ref> After Pashinyan's rally was visited by the Armenian President on the evening of April 21 for a brief chat with Pashinyan,<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29184147.html |title=Armenian President Visits Main Protest Site (UPDATED) |website=«Ազատ Եվրոպա/Ազատություն» ռադիոկայան |date=21 April 2018 |language=hy |access-date=22 April 2018 |last1=Aslanian |first1=Karlen |last2=Stepanian |first2=Ruzanna |archive-date=22 April 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180422202132/https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29184147.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Pashinyan agreed to meet the prime minister at 10 am on April 22, saying he believed the topic would be Serzh Sargsyan's resignation.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29184267.html|title=Serzh Sarkisian, Pashinian Agree To Meet|website=«Ազատ Եվրոպա/Ազատություն» ռադիոկայան|date=21 April 2018|language=hy|access-date=22 April 2018|last1=ռ/կ|first1=Ազատություն|archive-date=22 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180422201948/https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29184267.html|url-status=live}}</ref> [[File:Armenian Velvet Revolution 20180420 133702.jpg|thumb|alt=|Protesters calling on students and teachers to join the demonstrations]]

===April 22=== The meeting, which lasted for a mere three minutes,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://meduza.io/news/2018/04/22/premier-ministr-armenii-vstretilsya-s-liderom-protestov-ih-peregovory-prodlilis-tri-minuty|title=Премьер-министр Армении встретился с&nbsp;лидером протестов. Их&nbsp;переговоры продлились три минуты|work=Meduza|access-date=23 April 2018|language=ru-RU|archive-date=8 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190308041205/https://meduza.io/news/2018/04/22/premier-ministr-armenii-vstretilsya-s-liderom-protestov-ih-peregovory-prodlilis-tri-minuty|url-status=live}}</ref> failed to achieve anything, with Sargsyan walking out of it and accusing the opposition of "blackmail" when Pashinyan stated he had only agreed to discuss terms of the Prime Minister's resignation and nothing else.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.rferl.org/a/armenia-pm-walks-out-of-meeting-with-protest-leader/29184802.html|title=Tens Of Thousands Fill Yerevan Square As Protest Leader Pashinian Detained|newspaper=Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty|date=22 April 2018|language=en|access-date=23 April 2018|archive-date=23 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180423215932/https://www.rferl.org/a/armenia-pm-walks-out-of-meeting-with-protest-leader/29184802.html|url-status=live}}</ref> During the meeting, Sargsyan asked Pashinyan not to speak on behalf of the people and not to issue ultimatums to the government, given the low level of support for his political alliance (less than 10 percent of the vote in the past parliamentary elections). He also warned that Pashinyan had not "learned the lessons of March 1", a reference to the protestors killed by police while contesting the validity of the election results of Sargsyan's election 10 years earlier, amounting to an open threat of violence against the protesters gathering daily in around the nation.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/apr/22/armenia-unrest-opposition-leader-nikol-pashinyan-detained|title=Armenian opposition leader detained amid political unrest|last=Agencies|date=22 April 2018|website=the Guardian|language=en|access-date=23 April 2018|archive-date=23 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180423225047/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/apr/22/armenia-unrest-opposition-leader-nikol-pashinyan-detained|url-status=live}}</ref>

Immediately after the meeting, Pashinyan led a group of supporters from the site of the meeting by [[Republic Square, Yerevan|Republic Square]] on a long march down Tigran Mets and Artsakh streets to the Erebuni district, where they were met by riot police and stun grenades as Pashinyan was detained followed by mass detentions of protestors, including opposition lawmakers [[Sasun Mikayelyan]] and [[Ararat Mirzoyan]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rbc.ru/politics/22/04/2018/5adc41269a79471825b9f23e|title=Власти Армении пошли на силовую акцию против шествия оппозиции в Ереване|website=РБК|date=22 April 2018 |access-date=23 April 2018|archive-date=22 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180422112436/https://www.rbc.ru/politics/22/04/2018/5adc41269a79471825b9f23e|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.rferl.org/a/armenia-pm-walks-out-of-meeting-with-protest-leader/29184802.html|title=Tens Of Thousands Fill Yerevan Square As Protest Leader Pashinian Detained|newspaper=Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty|date=22 April 2018|access-date=23 April 2018|archive-date=23 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180423215932/https://www.rferl.org/a/armenia-pm-walks-out-of-meeting-with-protest-leader/29184802.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Protests continue throughout the city. By the evening 232 protestors had been detained or arrested,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.rbc.ru/rbcfreenews/5adc9bba9a794727c661e540|title=Число задержанных полицией активистов в Ереване возросло до 232 человек|website=РБК|date=22 April 2018 |access-date=23 April 2018|archive-date=22 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180422234210/https://www.rbc.ru/rbcfreenews/5adc9bba9a794727c661e540|url-status=live}}</ref> and, according to [[Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty]], tens of thousands<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29185545.html|title=Huge Crowds Keep Up Pressure On Armenian PM|website=«Ազատ Եվրոպա/Ազատություն» ռադիոկայան|date=22 April 2018|language=hy|access-date=23 April 2018|last1=Aslanian|first1=Karlen|archive-date=23 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180423102226/https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29185545.html|url-status=live}}</ref> gathered in Republic Square to continue to demand the resignation of PM Serzh Sargsyan. The police issued a statement saying that Pashinyan, Mikaelyan and Mirzoyan had been detained for 72 hours; however criminal charges could only be brought against them if the Republican-controlled National Assembly stripped them of their parliamentary immunity.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.rferl.org/a/armenia-fresh-protests-sarkisian-yerevan-pashinian/29186416.html|title=Yerevan Bracing For Fresh Protests After Detention Of Leader|website=RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty|language=en|access-date=23 April 2018|archive-date=13 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190413215131/https://www.rferl.org/a/armenia-fresh-protests-sarkisian-yerevan-pashinian/29186416.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

===April 23=== Protests resumed on April 23, with media outlets reporting that former and current members of the [[Armed Forces of Armenia|Armenian armed forces]], including participants of the [[2016 Nagorno-Karabakh clashes|2016 April War]], have joined in the rallies for the first time.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.rferl.org/a/armenia-protests-live-stream-april-23/29186696.html|title=Live Stream: Fresh Protests In Armenia|newspaper=Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty|date=23 April 2018|language=en|access-date=23 April 2018|archive-date=23 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180423170622/https://www.rferl.org/a/armenia-protests-live-stream-april-23/29186696.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.yahoo.com/news/group-soldiers-joins-anti-government-protests-armenia-100315832.html|title=Group of soldiers joins anti-government protests in Armenia|access-date=23 April 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=8 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190308042412/https://www.yahoo.com/news/group-soldiers-joins-anti-government-protests-armenia-100315832.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.dailysabah.com/europe/2018/04/23/armenian-interior-ministry-condemns-soldiers-joining-anti-government-rallies|title=Armenian soldiers join anti-government protests in Yerevan|work=DailySabah|access-date=23 April 2018|archive-date=26 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200826213111/https://www.dailysabah.com/europe/2018/04/23/armenian-soldiers-join-anti-government-protests-in-yerevan|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.rbc.ru/politics/23/04/2018/5addae049a79476016ed7de4|title=К протестам в Ереване присоединились военные|website=РБК|date=23 April 2018 |access-date=23 April 2018|archive-date=23 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180423115425/https://www.rbc.ru/politics/23/04/2018/5addae049a79476016ed7de4|url-status=live}}</ref> This information was later confirmed by the Ministry of Defence.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.mil.am/hy/news/5233|title=ՀՀ ՊԱՇՏՊԱՆՈՒԹՅԱՆ ՆԱԽԱՐԱՐՈՒԹՅՈՒՆ {{!}} Հայտարարություն|last=LLC|first=ZOOM GRAPHICS|website=mil.am|access-date=23 April 2018|archive-date=23 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180423235545/http://www.mil.am/hy/news/5233|url-status=live}}</ref>

Pashinyan was released at 3pm, and went directly to Republic Square where he spoke briefly, saying he would return at 6:30pm. By 4:30pm, Prime Minister Serzh Sargsyan had posted a message on the official website of the prime minister announcing his resignation.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.primeminister.am/hy/press-release/item/2018/04/23/Prime-Minister-Serzh-Sargsyans-statement/|title=Վարչապետ Սերժ Սարգսյանի հայտարարությունը – Մամլո հաղորդագրություններ – Լրատվություն – Հայաստանի Հանրապետության վարչապետ|website=primeminister.am|language=hy|access-date=24 April 2018|archive-date=24 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180424151552/http://www.primeminister.am/hy/press-release/item/2018/04/23/Prime-Minister-Serzh-Sargsyans-statement|url-status=live}}</ref> Former prime minister [[Karen Karapetyan]] succeeded Sargsyan as acting prime minister.<ref name="BBC_resign">{{cite news|title=Armenian PM resigns after protests|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-43868433|access-date=23 April 2018|work=BBC News|date=23 April 2018|archive-date=23 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180423230246/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-43868433|url-status=live}}</ref>

===April 24=== April 24 is marked as [[Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day|the national day of remembrance]] of the [[Armenian genocide]]. The protesters gathered in masses and walked to [[Tsitsernakaberd]], [[Tsitsernakaberd|Armenia's national Genocide Memorial]]. No protest was held on that day.

===April 25=== Pashinyan called for renewed protests on 25 April after talks with the Republican Party were cancelled due to Karapetyan's refusal to accept preconditions laid down by Pashinyan.<ref name="auto3"/> Earlier, Pashinyan stated that the Republican Party had no right to hold power in Armenia, and that a "people's candidate" should be appointed prime minister prior to holding snap elections.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theglobepost.com/2018/04/26/armenia-protests-pishanyan-iskandaryan/|title=Alexander Iskandaryan: Early to Say if Armenia Will Change for Better|last=Fieke Snijder and|first=Mahir Zeynalov|date=26 April 2018|work=The Globe Post|access-date=30 April 2018|archive-date=1 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180501004852/https://www.theglobepost.com/2018/04/26/armenia-protests-pishanyan-iskandaryan/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="auto2">{{Cite news|url=https://meduza.io/news/2018/04/25/oppozitsiya-vnov-vyshla-na-ulitsy-erevana-peregovory-pashinyana-s-premierom-sorvany|title=Оппозиция вновь вышла на&nbsp;улицы Еревана. Переговоры Пашиняна с&nbsp;премьером сорваны|work=Meduza|access-date=25 April 2018|language=ru-RU|archive-date=8 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190308040944/https://meduza.io/news/2018/04/25/oppozitsiya-vnov-vyshla-na-ulitsy-erevana-peregovory-pashinyana-s-premierom-sorvany|url-status=live}}</ref> He added that the protest movement should nominate this transitional prime minister, a position that was rejected by the current government as it would violate the law.<ref name="auto2"/> Protesters took to the streets to block the road to [[Zvartnots International Airport|Yerevan's international airport]] and the road leading to the border with [[Georgia (country)|Georgia]].<ref>https://www.rbc.ru/rbcfreenews/5ae046e89a79471c04280ebe {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210526031241/https://www.rbc.ru/rbcfreenews/5ae046e89a79471c04280ebe |date=26 May 2021 }} Протестующие в Ереване перекрыли дорогу в аэропорт Звартноц</ref> Meanwhile, the Prosperous Armenia Party and the Armenian Revolutionary Federation both declared their support for Pashinyan's movement, with the latter pulling out of the ruling coalition.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29192060.html|title=Dashnaktsutyun Quits Armenian Government|website=«Ազատ Եվրոպա/Ազատություն» ռադիոկայան|date=25 April 2018|language=hy|access-date=25 April 2018|last1=ռ/կ|first1=Ազատություն|archive-date=26 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180426013500/https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29192060.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Pashinyan vowed to continue the protests until he was appointed prime minister.<ref name="rbc.ru"/>

===April 26=== Tens of thousands continued to protest on 26 April, though Pashinyan asked protestors to stop blocking streets.<ref>{{Cite news | url=https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29193611.html | title=Armenian Parliament to Choose New PM on May 1 | newspaper=«Ազատ Եվրոպա/Ազատություն» Ռադիոկայան | date=26 April 2018 | last1=Aslanian | first1=Karlen | access-date=19 April 2019 | archive-date=29 September 2020 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200929171532/https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29193611.html | url-status=live }}</ref> The ruling Republican Party announced it was ready to meet with Pashinyan without any preconditions, while Pashinyan offered to negotiate with them while insisting he must become prime minister.<ref>{{Cite news | url=https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29194581.html | title=Armenian Protest Leader Offers Talks with Government | newspaper=«Ազատ Եվրոպա/Ազատություն» Ռադիոկայան | date=26 April 2018 | last1=Aslanian | first1=Karlen | last2=Stepanian | first2=Ruzanna | access-date=19 April 2019 | archive-date=29 September 2020 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200929175444/https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29194581.html | url-status=live }}</ref>

===April 27=== Pashinyan called on his supporters to suspend their rallies in Yerevan for 2 days while he held rallies in Gyumri on 27 April and Vanadzor on 28 April.<ref name="azatutyun.am">{{Cite news | url=https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29195799.html | title=Acting PM Refuses to Meet 'Intransigent' Pashinian | newspaper=«Ազատ Եվրոպա/Ազատություն» Ռադիոկայան | date=27 April 2018 | last1=Tamrazian | first1=Harry | last2=Stepanian | first2=Ruzanna | last3=Aslanian | first3=Karlen | access-date=19 April 2019 | archive-date=14 November 2020 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114120108/https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29195799.html | url-status=live }}</ref> In the morning he met with Armenia's largely ceremonial president, leaders of the governing party's former coalition partner the ARF, as well as Parliament's second largest faction, Prosperous Armenia.<ref name="azatutyun.am"/> In an interview on the same day, the president hailed the "New Armenia" that has come about due to the protests, and the chance for "a real democratic state".<ref>{{Cite news | url=https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29194645.html | title=President Hails 'New Armenia' | newspaper=«Ազատ Եվրոպա/Ազատություն» Ռադիոկայան | date=26 April 2018 | last1=Tamrazian | first1=Harry | access-date=19 April 2019 | archive-date=29 September 2020 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200929180013/https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29194645.html | url-status=live }}</ref> Meanwhile, the ruling Republican Party announced that they do not see any regime change occurring in Armenia.<ref>{{Cite news | url=https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29196328.html | title=Ruling Party Figure Sees No 'Regime Change' in Armenia | newspaper=«Ազատ Եվրոպա/Ազատություն» Ռադիոկայան | date=27 April 2018 | last1=Stepanian | first1=Ruzanna | access-date=19 April 2019 | archive-date=9 November 2020 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109040519/https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29196328.html | url-status=live }}</ref>

===April 28=== On 28 April, Pashinyan held rallies in [[Vanadzor]] and [[Ijevan]], while the second and third largest parties in Parliament – Prosperous Armenia and the ARF – announced they would support his candidacy for PM,<ref>{{Cite news | url=https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29197982.html | title=Tsarukian, Dashnaks Signal Support for Pashinian | newspaper=«Ազատ Եվրոպա/Ազատություն» Ռադիոկայան | date=28 April 2018 | last1=Stepanian | first1=Ruzanna | last2=Bedevian | first2=Astghik | access-date=19 April 2019 | archive-date=29 September 2020 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200929180342/https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29197982.html | url-status=live }}</ref> and the ruling Republican Party announced they would not block Pashinyan's candidacy,<ref>{{Cite news | url=https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29198941.html | title=Armenian Parliament Majority 'Won't Block' Opposition Candidate for PM | newspaper=«Ազատ Եվրոպա/Ազատություն» Ռադիոկայան | date=29 April 2018 | last1=Lazarian | first1=Tatevik | access-date=19 April 2019 | archive-date=9 November 2020 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109170233/https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29198941.html | url-status=live }}</ref> and that they would not put forward their own candidate.<ref>{{Cite news | url=https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29197867.html | title=Armenian Ruling Party Vows No Candidate for PM (UPDATED) | newspaper=«Ազատ Եվրոպա/Ազատություն» Ռադիոկայան | date=28 April 2018 | last1=Stepanian | first1=Ruzanna | last2=Aslanian | first2=Karlen | access-date=19 April 2019 | archive-date=29 September 2020 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200929170803/https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29197867.html | url-status=live }}</ref>

===May 1=== Parliament held elections for a new prime minister, with the opposition leader Pashinyan the only nominee, as over 100,000 people watched the 9 hour session being broadcast live at Republic Square. However, the majority party blocked his nomination by voting against him with one exception. After the election, prominent Armenian singers such as [[Iveta Mukuchyan]] and [[Sona Shahgeldyan]] performed for the crowd and made inspiring speeches. Pashinyan walked to Republic Square and told the crowd to go on strike the next day, and block all transportation from 8:15 in the morning until 5 in the evening, then gather for another rally at 7pm in Republic Square.

===May 2=== The nation ground to a halt as countless streets and highways were peacefully blocked throughout the nation, and many workers and businesses went on strike. The main airport access road was cut off, with some workers striking, and even land crossings were blocked. Approximately 150,000 people gathered in another evening rally in [[Republic Square, Yerevan|Republic Square]] to listen to Pashinyan speak, and were told that he had been informed that due to the strike, the ruling party had decided to support his candidacy in the next round of voting on May 8.<ref>{{cite news |title=Armenia's pro-democracy leader tells his jubilant followers they can ease up |date=2 May 2018 |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200922161058/https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/europe/armenias-pro-democracy-movement-defiant-in-face-of-parliament-rejection/2018/05/02/dbb57c0a-4de7-11e8-84a0-458a1aa9ac0a_story.html |archive-date=22 September 2020 |url-status=live |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/europe/armenias-pro-democracy-movement-defiant-in-face-of-parliament-rejection/2018/05/02/dbb57c0a-4de7-11e8-84a0-458a1aa9ac0a_story.html}}</ref> Protests were suspended in the meantime.

===May 8=== On May 8, [[National Assembly (Armenia)|Parliament]] had another vote for a new prime minister, and again Nikol Pashinyan was the only candidate. This time, the majority Republican Party gave Pashinyan enough votes to win with a 59–42 margin.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29214870.html |title=Pashinian Elected Armenian PM (UPDATED) |website=«Ազատ Եվրոպա/Ազատություն» ռադիոկայան |date=8 May 2018 |access-date=10 December 2018 |last1=ռ/կ |first1=Ազատություն |archive-date=4 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180704213548/https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29214870.html |url-status=live }}</ref> All the votes against Pashinyan still came from the Republican Party.

==Reactions== On April 4 [[Edmon Marukyan]], leader of the [[Bright Armenia]] party, which cooperated with the [[Civil Contract (Armenia)|Civil Contract]] party led by [[Nikol Pashinyan]] in the [[Way Out Alliance]] published an article in [[Aravot]] newspaper, in which he stated his preference for formal means of counteracting the ruling coalition rather than civil disobedience actions.<ref name="auto"/>

Leader of the [[Free Democrats (Armenia)|Free Democrats]] party and former MP Khachatur Kokobelyan attended protests and expressed his support for the actions.<ref name="auto"/>

Many cultural figures had already declared solidarity with the&nbsp;opposition movement. In particular, well-known musician [[Serj Tankian|Serj&nbsp;Tankian]] of [[System of a Down]] addressed the activists declaring his&nbsp;solidarity and support, stressing the impermissibility of one-party&nbsp;rule in Armenia.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://news.am/eng/news/446477.html|title=Serj Tankian on Yerevan protests: Civil disobedience works like a charm when enough people participate|website=news.am|language=en|access-date=23 April 2018|archive-date=21 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180421232744/https://news.am/eng/news/446477.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Some organizations of the [[Armenian diaspora|diaspora]], in particular&nbsp;the [[Assembly of Armenians of Europe]], also expressed support for the&nbsp;opposition.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://arminfo.info/full_news.php?id=30467&lang=3|title=Arminfo: In Yerevan, the initiative Take a step, turn down Serzhu began the&nbsp; action of civil disobedience|access-date=16 April 2018|language=en|archive-date=10 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190210152639/http://arminfo.info/full_news.php?id=30467&lang=3|url-status=live}}</ref>

The [[Helsinki Committee of Armenia]] noted that freedom of expression and media had improved significantly.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://livenews.am/press/2020/29557/09/22/40/|title=Հայաստանից մոտ 2 շաբաթ հետո ՄԱԿ-ի Մարդու իրավունքների խորհրդին կեղծ տեղեկություններ են ներկայացվելու|date=9 January 2020|website=Live News|access-date=26 May 2023|archive-date=26 May 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230526203017/https://livenews.am/press/2020/29557/09/22/40/|url-status=live}}</ref> Meanwhile, the [[Helsinki Citizens' Assembly–Vanadzor]] called for further strengthening Armenia's democracy and government transparency.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.aravot.am/2022/05/27/1270679/|title=«2018-ից հետո ժողովրդավարական գործընթացների սկսման հնարավորություն ունեցանք և ունենք, բայց իշխանությունը հետևողական չեղավ ժողովրդավարական փոփոխությունների առումով». Արթուր Սաքունց &#124; Առավոտ - Լուրեր Հայաստանից|access-date=31 May 2023|archive-date=30 May 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230530152323/https://www.aravot.am/2022/05/27/1270679/|url-status=live}}</ref> The [[Europe in Law Association]] called for the elimination of [[Corruption in Armenia|corruption]] and for the government to strengthen Armenia's judicial system.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://en.aravot.am/2020/06/08/257413/|title=Armenia's judicial tightrope walk &#124;|access-date=28 August 2023|archive-date=26 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230826234441/https://en.aravot.am/2020/06/08/257413/|url-status=live}}</ref>

Mamikon Hovespyan, Director of [[Pink Armenia]], an [[LGBT rights in Armenia|LGBT rights]] group, stated "while LGBT+ people were present at previous protests, this time they were more visible and accepted."<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-armenia-lgbt-politics-idUSKCN1S300H|title=Armenia's LGBT+ community still waits for change one year after revolution|website=[[Reuters]] |access-date=3 May 2023|archive-date=20 November 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221120040322/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-armenia-lgbt-politics-idUSKCN1S300H|url-status=live}}</ref>

Following the revolution, it was recommended that an [[EU Advisory Group to the Republic of Armenia|EU Advisory Group]] to Armenia be reestablished as a way to counter Russian influence in Armenia, tackle corruption, and to assist post-revolutionary Armenia to build closer ties with the EU and continue implementing its reform agenda. Many called for prime minister Nikol Pashinyan to increase engagement with Europe as a way to reduce the country's overdependence on Russia.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://ecfr.eu/publication/russia_armenia_and_europe_after_the_velvet_revolution/|title=Paradox of power: Russia, Armenia, and Europe after the Velvet Revolution|first=Richard|last=Giragosian|date=August 7, 2019|website=ECFR|access-date=31 August 2023|archive-date=31 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230831155645/https://ecfr.eu/publication/russia_armenia_and_europe_after_the_velvet_revolution/|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[Styopa Safaryan]], founder of the [[Armenian Institute of International and Security Affairs]] stated that Armenian authorities have been making progress to implement democratic reforms following the revolution.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://news.am/eng/news/505231.html|title=Analyst says Armenian authorities striving to take substantive actions|website=news.am|access-date=17 January 2023|archive-date=17 January 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230117042531/https://news.am/eng/news/505231.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

===International reactions=== * {{flag|Council of Europe}}: The Council of Europe praised the peaceful transition of power, and hailed the protests as a milestone in Armenia's history and a "euphoric moment" that unified the nation.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://assembly.coe.int/nw/xml/XRef/Xref-XML2HTML-en.asp?fileid=29607&lang=en|title=The functioning of democratic institutions in Armenia|website=assembly.coe|access-date=14 April 2023|archive-date=14 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230414152834/https://assembly.coe.int/nw/xml/XRef/Xref-XML2HTML-en.asp?fileid=29607&lang=en|url-status=live}}</ref> * {{flag|European Union}}: On April 24 the head of the [[Delegation of the European Union to Armenia|EU Delegation to Armenia]] hailed the success in the civic disobedience campaign in the country, promising a more intensive process towards the ratification of the [[Armenia–EU Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement|Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.tert.am/en/news/2018/04/24/Switalski/2670578|title=EU envoy pledges to step up ratification of CEPA|website=tert.am|language=en|access-date=26 April 2018|archive-date=9 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190109110911/https://www.tert.am/en/news/2018/04/24/Switalski/2670578|url-status=dead}}</ref> * {{flag|Georgia}}: [[Mikheil Saakashvili]], former president of Georgia, released a video on April 23 congratulating the Armenian people on Sargsyan's resignation. He stated: "Today you have every right to be proud of yourself, to be proud of the fact that you are Armenians, the proud people who could prove to the whole world that they have dignity, that they want to live in normal human conditions, free from corruption. Armenia has a great future; today I was convinced of it again. I support you, we will always be with you. Well done!"<ref>{{cite web|url=https://news.am/eng/news/447914.html|title=Saakashvili: Armenia has a great future|website=news.am|access-date=26 April 2018|archive-date=9 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190109062147/https://news.am/eng/news/447914.html|url-status=live}}</ref> He also claimed that the movement is a "rebellion against Russia".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.civil.ge/eng/article.php?id=31041|title=Civil.Ge – Georgia: Mixed Reactions over Armenia Protests|first=Civil|last=Georgia|website=civil.ge|access-date=26 April 2018|archive-date=24 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180424151307/http://www.civil.ge/eng/article.php?id=31041|url-status=live}}</ref> * {{flag|Russia}}: Foreign Ministry spokeswoman [[Maria Zakharova]] praised the peaceful transition, adding that "Armenia, Russia is always with you!"<ref>{{cite news|title='I Was Wrong': Armenian Leader Quits Amid Protests|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2018/04/23/world/europe/armenia-prime-minister-protests.html|work=New York Times|date=23 April 2018|access-date=24 April 2018|archive-date=28 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190528004658/https://www.nytimes.com/2018/04/23/world/europe/armenia-prime-minister-protests.html|url-status=live}}</ref> A statement on the Foreign Ministry official web page reads: "We hope that the situation will develop exclusively in the legal and constitutional field, and all political forces will show responsibility and readiness for a constructive dialogue. We are convinced that the prompt return of life in the country to normal and the restoration of public accord meet the fundamental interests of the fraternal Armenia."<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://arka.am/en/news/politics/russian_foreign_ministry_emphasizes_restoration_of_public_accord_in_armenia/|title=Russian foreign ministry emphasizes restoration of public accord in Armenia|website=arka.am|date=25 April 2018 |access-date=26 April 2018|archive-date=19 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181019111011/http://arka.am/en/news/politics/russian_foreign_ministry_emphasizes_restoration_of_public_accord_in_armenia|url-status=live}}</ref> * {{flag|United States}}: On April 23, US Ambassador [[Richard M. Mills Jr.|Richard Mills]] praised the Armenian police and anti-government protesters led by [[Nikol Pashinyan]] for avoiding bloodshed during their standoff that led to the resignation of Prime Minister [[Serzh Sargsyan]]. A statement by the [[US State Department]] expressed hope that his successor will be chosen in a transparent and constitutional manner. The statement also called on Armenia's leading political groups to "avoid an escalation of the situation and any violent actions."<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29189913.html |title=U.S. Envoy Hails 'Spirit Of Democracy' In Armenia |website=«Ազատ Եվրոպա/Ազատություն» ռադիոկայան |date=24 April 2018 |language=hy |access-date=26 April 2018 |last1=Sahakian |first1=Nane |last2=Harutyunyan |first2=Sargis |archive-date=12 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612142830/https://www.azatutyun.am/a/29189913.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Protests were held by Armenians in various communities of the United States, with 5,000 protesters gathering in solidarity with those protesting in Armenia on April 22<ref>{{cite news|url=https://abc7.com/3380671/|title=SoCal Armenians protest election results in their homeland|first=Melissa|last=MacBride|date=23 April 2018|website=ABC7 Los Angeles|access-date=10 December 2018|archive-date=11 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181211095637/https://abc7.com/3380671/|url-status=live}}</ref> and additional protests being held on other days, including May 8.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://abc7.com/3442359/|title=Armenians gather in Glendale to rally for upcoming election|first=veronica miracle bio,veronica miracle, veronica abc7|last=bio|date=8 May 2018|website=ABC7 Los Angeles|access-date=10 December 2018|archive-date=11 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181211095706/https://abc7.com/3442359/|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Impact== During the [[2020 Belarusian protests]], the Armenian revolution was brought up as a model for [[Belarus]] for its lack of anti-Russian or pro-Western geopolitical orientation by commentators such as [[Carl Bildt]],<ref>{{cite news |last1=Bildt |first1=Carl |author-link1=Carl Bildt |title=The Armenian Model for Belarus |url=https://www.project-syndicate.org/commentary/belarus-armenia-model-2018-democratic-transition-by-carl-bildt-2020-08 |agency=[[Project Syndicate]] |date=August 18, 2020 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20200820085556/https://www.project-syndicate.org/commentary/belarus-armenia-model-2018-democratic-transition-by-carl-bildt-2020-08 |archive-date=20 August 2020 |access-date=20 August 2020 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Bildt |first1=Carl |author-link1=Carl Bildt |title=The Armenian model for Belarus |url=https://www.ecfr.eu/article/commentary_the_armenian_model_for_belarus |publisher=[[European Council on Foreign Relations]] |archive-url=https://archive.today/20200820085853/https://www.ecfr.eu/article/commentary_the_armenian_model_for_belarus |archive-date=20 August 2020 |date=19 August 2020 |access-date=20 August 2020 |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Anders Åslund]],<ref>{{cite web |last1=Åslund |first1=Anders |author-link1=Anders Åslund |title=Why Vladimir Putin is unlikely to invade Belarus |url=https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/blogs/ukrainealert/why-vladimir-putin-is-unlikely-to-invade-belarus/ |publisher=[[Atlantic Council]] |archive-url=https://archive.today/20200816215012/https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/blogs/ukrainealert/why-vladimir-putin-is-unlikely-to-invade-belarus/ |archive-date=16 August 2020 |date=August 16, 2020 |quote=Rather than looking to Russia's policy toward Ukraine in 2014, I think we should turn to its policy on Armenia since 2018. This was the most recent post-Soviet color revolution. Initially, Putin's position seemed to be hesitant, but now he appears to be quite happy with Armenia's very popular democratic Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. Armenia has stayed in the Eurasian Economic Union and in Moscow's Collective Security Treaty Organization along with Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. In addition, large Russian state companies completely dominate the Armenian economy. |access-date=20 August 2020 |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Ian Bremmer]],<ref>{{cite web |last1=Bremmer |first1=Ian |author-link1=Ian Bremmer |title=Russia didn't intervene when the Armenians threw out their leader two years ago. [...] Same factors in Belarus today. |url=https://twitter.com/ianbremmer/status/1295686682579279876 |publisher=[[Twitter]] |archive-url=https://archive.today/20200820091034/https://twitter.com/ianbremmer/status/1295686682579279876 |archive-date=20 August 2020 |date=August 18, 2020 |access-date=20 August 2020 |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Yaroslav Trofimov]],<ref>{{cite web |last1=Trofimov |first1=Yaroslav |author-link1=Yaroslav Trofimov |title=It is also entirely possible that there is a solution in Belarus that satisfies Russia and the EU (including France.) Cf. Armenia 2018. |url=https://twitter.com/yarotrof/status/1294317897968496640 |publisher=[[Twitter]] |archive-url=https://archive.today/20200820091315/https://twitter.com/yarotrof/status/1294317897968496640 |archive-date=20 August 2020 |date=August 14, 2020 |access-date=20 August 2020 |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Ben Judah]],<ref>{{cite news |last1=Haddad |first1=Benjamin |last2=Judah |first2=Ben |author-link2=Ben Judah |title=Europe Must Stand Up for Belarus |url=https://foreignpolicy.com/2020/08/07/belarus-europe-elections-russia-pro-democracy-protests/ |work=[[Foreign Policy]] |date=August 7, 2020 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20200807204912/https://foreignpolicy.com/2020/08/07/belarus-europe-elections-russia-pro-democracy-protests/ |archive-date=7 August 2020 |quote=Toward Moscow, the grouping should be clear that it favors the same approach the West took toward the Armenia revolution in spring 2018: It supports democracy, but will not seek to expand either NATO or EU membership toward Belarus. |access-date=20 August 2020 |url-status=live }}</ref> and others. Belarusian journalist [[Franak Viačorka]] criticized this notion.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Viačorka |first1=Franak |author-link1=Franak Viačorka |title=What Honorable Carl Bildt is offering here— absolutely dangerous and preserving Russian domination over BY. This would lead to entire russification of elites, export of corruption from Russia and unification of political systems (with pocket opposition and Russian parties) |url=https://twitter.com/franakviacorka/status/1295841421887447041 |publisher=[[Twitter]] |archive-url=https://archive.today/20200820090059/https://twitter.com/franakviacorka/status/1295841421887447041 |archive-date=20 August 2020 |date=August 19, 2020 |quote=What Honorable Carl Bildt is offering here— absolutely dangerous and preserving Russian domination over BY. This would lead to entire russification of elites, export of corruption from Russia and unification of political systems (with pocket opposition and Russian parties) |access-date=20 August 2020 |url-status=live }}</ref> Armenia's Foreign Minister [[Zohrab Mnatsakanyan]] also rejected the comparisons. "Armenia followed its own path and it's not quite correct to draw parallels based on that. True, there might be some common parameters, but on the whole these are different situations," he said.<ref>{{cite news |title=Yerevan Rejects Parallels Between Belarus Protests, Armenian Revolution |url=https://www.azatutyun.am/a/30815426.html |work=azatutyun.am |agency=[[RFE/RL]] |date=1 September 2020 |access-date=2 September 2020 |archive-date=27 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201027152810/https://www.azatutyun.am/a/30815426.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Armenian Velvet Revolution in art== The Armenian velvet revolution almost immediately found its response in modern [[Armenian art]]. One of the first artists who touched on the topic was the artist [[Anna Soghomonyan]] with her painting "The Armenian Velvet Revolution". This is a multi-figure composition in a fabulous style inherent in the author, which includes people of different types who participated in the events of spring 2018.<ref>{{Cite web |title="Бархатная революция" в искусстве: картины Анны Согомонян |url=https://www.armmuseum.ru/news-blog/2018/7/5/--2 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211202182244/https://www.armmuseum.ru/news-blog/2018/7/5/--2 |archive-date=2 December 2021 |access-date=2021-12-02 |website=Армянский музей Москвы и культуры наций |language=en-CA |url-status=dead }}</ref> According to the author, this painting is very symbolic not only because it was created during a very emotional period and represents a concentrated reflection of these emotions, but also because it was sold on the day of the defeat of the Armenians in the [[2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war|Second Artsakh War]],<ref>{{Cite web|first1=Anna |last1=Soghomonyan |title=This painting is iconic for me. I painted this during the fantastic Armenian Velvet Revolution in May 2018. And it was bought on a terrible day when we learned that we had lost the war to Azerbaijan. Today is again an alarming day for #Armenia. God save our country. |url=https://www.linkedin.com/posts/annukart_armenia-activity-6770670116523806720-PKCZ|access-date=2021-12-02|website=LinkedIn |language=en|archive-date=2 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211202182242/https://www.linkedin.com/posts/annukart_armenia-activity-6770670116523806720-PKCZ|url-status=live}}</ref> which, in fact, may symbolize the failure of the hopes of the national awakening of 2018.

In July 2018, in the exhibition hall "Albert and Tove Boyajyan" of the [[State Academy of Fine Arts of Armenia]], art historian Meri Ghazaryan organized a photo exhibition entitled "Velvet Revolution: Between Picture and Reality", which presented the works of young photographers who caught the fresh breath of the revolution, known and unknown pages of spring events, impressive episodes and faces.<ref>{{Cite news |title=ՀԵՂԱՓՈԽՈՒԹՅԱՆ ԱՐՎԵՍՏԸ|work=AZG Daily|url=https://www.azg.am/AM/culture/2018072703/|access-date=2021-12-02|archive-date=2 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211202182256/https://www.azg.am/AM/culture/2018072703/|url-status=live}}</ref>

In October 2018, art critic [[Vardan Jaloyan]] and a group of artists organized an exhibition of contemporary art "Revolutionary Sensorium" at the [[History Museum of Armenia]], where the key events of the revolution were presented to museum visitors in a combination of photographs and video installations.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Թավշյա հեղափոխությունն արվեստի գործերում|url=https://www.1lurer.am/hy/2018/10/06/%D4%B9%D5%A1%D5%BE%D5%B7%D5%B5%D5%A1-%D5%B0%D5%A5%D5%B2%D5%A1%D6%83%D5%B8%D5%AD%D5%B8%D6%82%D5%A9%D5%B5%D5%B8%D6%82%D5%B6%D5%B6-%D5%A1%D6%80%D5%BE%D5%A5%D5%BD%D5%BF%D5%AB-%D5%A3%D5%B8%D6%80%D5%AE%D5%A5%D6%80%D5%B8%D6%82%D5%B4/102622|access-date=2021-12-02|website=www.1lurer.am|date=6 October 2018 |language=hy|archive-date=2 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211202183751/https://www.1lurer.am/hy/2018/10/06/%D4%B9%D5%A1%D5%BE%D5%B7%D5%B5%D5%A1-%D5%B0%D5%A5%D5%B2%D5%A1%D6%83%D5%B8%D5%AD%D5%B8%D6%82%D5%A9%D5%B5%D5%B8%D6%82%D5%B6%D5%B6-%D5%A1%D6%80%D5%BE%D5%A5%D5%BD%D5%BF%D5%AB-%D5%A3%D5%B8%D6%80%D5%AE%D5%A5%D6%80%D5%B8%D6%82%D5%B4/102622|url-status=live}}</ref>

On May 9, 2019, within the framework of the [[Venice Biennale|59th Venice Biennale of Art]], the Armenian pavilion was opened, where the project "Revolutionary Sensorium" was presented under the curatorship of art critic [[Susanna Gyulamiryan|Susanna Gulamiryan]]. The participants of the project were a group of artists "Artlab Yerevan" (Hovhannes Margaryan, Vardan Jaloyan, Artur Petrosyan, Gagik Charchyan) and artist Narine Arakelyan.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Թավշյա հեղափոխությունը՝ Վենետիկի արվեստի բիենալեում|url=https://mystep.foundation/hy/news/355/|access-date=2021-12-02|newspaper=Mystep|language=en|archive-date=2 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211202201515/https://mystep.foundation/hy/news/355/|url-status=live}}</ref>

In November 2018, the literary website "Groghutsav", founded by writers Arpi Voskanyan and Hambartsum Hambartsumyan, was relaunched. Since 2011, Groghutsav has rallied writers involved in the opposition, political struggle and not disdaining to bring political and social problems to literature on one platform, but in July 2017, due to lack of financial resources, it ceased its activities. The restarted project has a number of subprojects, one of which is called the "Revolutionary Program". This program is carried out by publishing works that focus on the velvet revolution in Armenia in 2018 with its results and consequences.<ref>{{Cite web|title="Գրողուցավի" մասին -|work=Գրողուցավ |url=https://groghutsav.am/%D5%A3%D6%80%D5%B8%D5%B2%D5%B8%D6%82%D6%81%D5%A1%D5%BE%D5%AB-%D5%B4%D5%A1%D5%BD%D5%AB%D5%B6/|access-date=2021-12-02|language=en-US|archive-date=2 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211202182247/https://groghutsav.am/%D5%A3%D6%80%D5%B8%D5%B2%D5%B8%D6%82%D6%81%D5%A1%D5%BE%D5%AB-%D5%B4%D5%A1%D5%BD%D5%AB%D5%B6/|url-status=live}}</ref>

==See also== {{Portal|Politics|Society}} * [[2008 Armenian presidential election protests]], especially clashes that occurred [[2008 Armenian presidential election protests#1 March|1 March]] * [[2011 Armenian protests]], triggered over Karen Karapetyan's decision to ban street vendors in Yerevan * [[Mashtots Park Movement]], 2012 protests to save green space in Yerevan * [[2013 Armenian protests]], over Serzh Sargsyan's re-election * [[2013 Armenian protests#Public transportation fare increase protests (20–25 July)|2013 Armenian protests over public transportation fare hikes]] * [[Electric Yerevan]], 2015 protests over electricity rate hikes * [[2016 Yerevan hostage crisis#Solidarity|2016 Yerevan hostage crisis demonstrations]] * ''[[I Am Not Alone]]'', a 2019 documentary film about the revolution * [[2020–2021 Armenian protests]] * [[Colour revolution]] * [[Serzhik, go away!]] * [[List of protests in the 21st century]]

==Further reading== * [http://muse.jhu.edu/article/721648 Lanskoy, Miriam & Suthers, Elspeth. "Armenia's Velvet Revolution." Journal of Democracy, vol. 30 no. 2, 2019, pp. 85–99.]

==References== {{Reflist}}

{{Nikol Pashinyan}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:2018 Armenian Protests}} [[Category:2018 in Armenia|Protests]] [[Category:2018 protests|Armenian]] [[Category:2010s revolutions]] [[Category:April 2018 in Europe|Armenian protests]] [[Category:April 2018 in Asia|Armenian protests]] [[Category:Armenian democracy movements]] [[Category:Colour revolutions]] [[Category:Protests in Armenia]] [[Category:Serzh Sargsyan]] [[Category:Nikol Pashinyan]] [[Category:Labor disputes in Armenia]] [[Category:Democratic revolutions]]