IRI Armenia Poll Shows Concerns over National Security, Sharp Divisions on Russia, Improving Relations with Turkey

Yerevan, Armenia – A new nationwide poll conducted in Armenia by the International Republican Institute’s (IRI) Center for Insights in Survey Research (CISR) found national security as a top concern, dividing views on Russia, and improving relations with Turkey.  

When asked about the most important problem facing the country, a clear plurality of 44% said national security.  

“Our poll shows that national security is a top issue for Armenians,” said Stephen Nix, Senior Director for Eurasia at IRI. “There appears to be a clear expectation of the government to prioritize strengthening Armenia’s armed forces and protecting the border,” said Nix.  

Perceptions of Armenia’s neighbors are also changing. The percentage of Armenians who assess the state of the relationship with Russia as good has decreased to 50%, the lowest ever measured in an IRI poll in Armenia. Twenty-three percent believe that the relationship with Turkey is “good,” representing a substantial increase from previous surveys.  

“Attitudes toward Russia have been declining in Armenia for the last several years,” said Nix. “Conversely, the sharp increase in positive views of Turkey is a welcome development for two countries with historically high tensions.” 

Methodology     

The survey was conducted on behalf of the International Republican Institute’s Center for Insights in Survey Research by Breavis.  Data was collected via CAPI administered face-to-face interviews throughout Armenia between January 23 and March 4, 2023. ​ The sample consisted of 1,513 permanent residents of Armenia 18 and older. The achieved sample was weighted for age, gender, and community type according to the 2021 Yearbook of the Statistical Committee of Armenia. The margin of error does not exceed plus or minus 2.5 percentage points for the full sample. The response rate was 16%.