Christian leaders jailed as Armenia’s ancient church faces government crackdown

Religious freedom in Armenia is under growing threat, according to a new international report warning of an escalating confrontation between Church and State.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan is accused of waging an unprecedented campaign against the Armenian Apostolic Holy Church (AAHC), which has stood at the heart of the country’s identity since AD 301.

The report, published by international law firm Amsterdam & Partners, claims that senior clergy and church supporters have been targeted with politically motivated prosecutions ahead of national elections next year.

Among those detained is Archbishop Mikayel Ajapahyan, reportedly serving a two-year sentence for criticising the government.

Businessman and church benefactor Samvel Karapetyan has also been imprisoned and had his assets seized, including control of Armenia’s electricity supply company, a move the report describes as “a gross breach of law and human rights”.

Lord Jackson of Peterborough, vice-chair of the UK All-Party Parliamentary Group on Religious Freedom, condemned the arrests, calling it “frightening” that Christians could face jail for defending their faith.

He urged Armenia’s government to uphold the right to worship freely without fear of “intimidation or imprisonment”.

The AAHC remains deeply trusted by Armenians, with nearly 97% of the population identifying as members.

Analysts say this support has put the Church on a collision course with Pashinyan’s administration, already under pressure after Armenia’s military defeat.

Concluding the report, Alison Meuse, experienced journalist and regional expert, observed that “the Church has not faced such an existential threat since the harshest years of the Soviet purges and consolidation of power. History in Armenia appears to be repeating itself.”