In 2008 Serzh Sargsyan came to power in Armenia as its president amidst violent suppression of anti-government protests in which at least 10 people were killed. At the end of his second presidential term, Serzh Sargsyan was about to become prime minister - a new and enhanced role, after changes to the constitution were passed by a 2015 referendum marred by widespread irregularities. Many Armenians regarded his move essentially as a third presidential term by the back-door. The prime minister became more powerful than the president, leading to concern of authoritarian rule.Tens of thousands of protesters rallied daily in Yerevan, the capital. The massive street protests forced the country’s longtime leader to resign.
Armenia is an example for peaceful civil disobedience and activism.
"..I do not consider the recent events in Armenia as a revolution because the old capitalist class is still exploiting the country and the working class. There is also no revolutionary party in Armenia — but experiences like this help us to build revolutionary organizations. Victories like this enhance the class consciousness of the protestors..."
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