Armenian National Institute
e-mail: info@ani-dc.org @ArmNatInstitute
Copyright © 1998-2024 Armenian National Institute. Read copyright notice and disclaimer.
December 4, 2023
Since the start of the displacement crisis following the latest escalation of the conflict on 20 September 2023, over 100,000 refugees have arrived in Armenia, adding to the approximately 25,000 vulnerable persons who continue to live in a situation of displacement since the previous conflict in 2020. Secondary movement within Armenia continues to be a coping mechanism for the displaced population, posing challenges to accuracy in the registration process and consistency in service provision. However, mobile service provision and digitized information management are proving relatively effective in assisting mobile segments of the population.
In accordance with Armenian law, displaced persons may apply for citizenship once they meet standardized requirements. Since 26 October 2023 through decree 1864-N of the Government of Armenia, forcibly displaced persons are additionally granted temporary protection and recognized as refugees. While this does not change the assistance available to displaced persons, the measure grants official legal status and protection of their rights, informs the registration process, and potentially accelerates pathways to citizenship in complement to other Armenian laws and mechanisms.
Two months have passed since the refugees were displaced, losing their homes, livelihoods, loved ones, and social safety nets. While the most resilient among them have made rapid progress in integrating into Armenian socioeconomics, most will continue to struggle to reach self-sufficiency for the foreseeable future. With the onset of winter, additional risks are arising including a lack of warm clothing and adequately heated housing, seasonal illnesses, exacerbated mental health challenges, reduced mobility, and lower remittances (where applicable).
| Activity | Outcome |
|---|---|
| Primary health care consultations | 2,221 |
| Symptomatic treatment for illnesses | 424 |
| Referrals for specialized health care | 392 |
| MHPSS services | 564 individuals |
Technical and social assessments in government-managed shelters to identify needs for rehabilitation, refurbishment, and NFIs.
Commencing a Labor Force Potential Assessment among forcibly displaced persons to support socioeconomic integration.
Enhancing early warning systems of communities through equipment provision and GIS hazard mapping exercises.
Data processing to assist the Government in analyzing refugee registration data and inform humanitarian response targeting.
These activities are supported by global funding from the German Federal Foreign Office, the United States Agency for International Development, and the UN Central Emergency Response Fund.
This article is reproduced from International Organization for Migration (IOM) (2023). Armenia Displacement Crisis Overview. Geneva: IOM.
For more information: www.iom.int/resources/iom-armenia-programme-update-december-2023