From Yerevan streets: AnewZ hears Armenians on the peace process

In a region long defined by conflict and complex history, AnewZ set out to hear the voices that matter most- those of the people.

From the bustling avenues of Yerevan to the lively corners of Tbilisi and the dynamic streets of Baku, our team conducted a regional vox populi, asking one simple yet profound question: What does peace mean to you?

The answers, captured in a series of striking soundbites, paint a diverse and emotionally charged picture. Some expressed cautious optimism. “If there is peace, all sides, all countries will benefit,” one Yerevan resident said, before adding a warning: “Only if outsiders don’t interfere or influence things, and the two countries can reach an agreement without mediators.”

Others were far more sceptical. “Peace with Azerbaijan is not possible,” another voice in Yerevan declared bluntly. That scepticism is echoed by a sense of irreversible damage. “Azerbaijanis used to live here too, back when people lived peacefully. But so much has been ruined. Now it’s no longer possible,” a resident recalled with regret.

Across the border in Tbilisi, the mood shifted towards hope. “I support it [peace], and I would like to see stability in the Caucasus, with trustworthy partnerships and peace,” one respondent told us. Another highlighted the opportunity for youth: “It’s a beautiful chance for young people to travel and connect without fear.”

In Baku, several interviewees pointed to growing economic cooperation and regional integration. “I think this is a good tendency, and everything is tending towards resolution,” said one. Another noted, “If the South Caucasus countries unite, the economy will grow, and trade will flourish.”

This mosaic of opinions — ranging from deep-rooted doubt to aspirational hope — forms the heart of a new AnewZ three-part special. It is a rare, unfiltered glimpse into how ordinary citizens across Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan view the prospect of peace and the future of the South Caucasus.

Regional focus, global vision.
Stay tuned as we release each chapter of this compelling journey — a story told by people on the ground.