The Conference of European Churches (CEC) has conveyed its concern to the European political institutions regarding recent tensions between the Armenian government and the Armenian Apostolic Church, a Member Church of CEC, urging respect for democratic principles, the rule of law, and freedom of religion.

In a letter addressed to Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, CEC General Secretary Rev. Frank-Dieter Fischbach underlined the importance of preserving a peaceful and transparent public environment in Armenia, particularly in the period leading to the country’s upcoming elections.

“We are concerned about the growing tension between the government and the Armenian Apostolic Church, as well as the broader societal polarisation this creates,” said Fischbach.

“CEC respectfully asks the Armenian government to uphold the autonomy of the Church and maintain the constitutional separation between church and state,” he added.

CEC stressed that all legal and administrative actions involving clergy or representatives of religious communities must fully comply with the rule of law. This includes respect for due process, judicial independence, transparency, and proportionality, which are essential for maintaining public trust and ensuring a fair judicial system.

“Freedom of religion or belief is a fundamental right,” Fischbach said, recalling Armenia’s commitments under the European Convention on Human Rights and other international instruments.

Ahead of the upcoming elections, CEC also called on the Armenian authorities to exercise restraint in the coming months and encouraged all actors to engage in dialogue and avoid polarising rhetoric.