Fragile democratic foundations persist despite progress. Polarization between pro- and anti-government factions deepened in the aftermath of the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war. Anti-government protests in 2024 revealed inconsistent adherence to democratic norms and politically motivated pressure on opposition-aligned local officials.
Economic growth was driven by the construction and technology sectors, supported by cooperation with international partners. Nevertheless, reliance on the Russia-led Eurasian Economic Union and closed borders with Türkiye and Azerbaijan continue to hinder regional integration and sustainable development.
The government seeks to balance pragmatic relations with Russia and a deepening engagement with Western democracies. The EU’s Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement provides a framework for reform and modernization, yet progress stagnates amid persistent security challenges following the 2020 war.
