BETWEEN SECURITY ANXIETY AND LEADERSHIP DEMAND: PUBLIC PERCEPTIONS OF POLITICS AND POLITICAL LEADERSHIP IN ARMENIA AHEAD OF THE 2026 PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS

Abstract

This article examines public perceptions of Armenia’s political situation, leadership, and electoral prospects based on six focus group discussions conducted in October–November 2025. The study explores how citizens evaluate recent developments in the country, perceive key challenges facing the Armenian state, assess political actors, and imagine the characteristics of an ideal political leader. The findings demonstrate that concerns about national security, statehood, and political leadership dominate public discourse. Although participants acknowledged certain positive developments, including digitalization, infrastructure improvements, and modernization of public services, these achievements were largely overshadowed by anxieties related to security, governance, national identity, and political legitimacy. Respondents expressed widespread distrust toward political elites and institutions while simultaneously demonstrating strong interest in electoral participation and leadership change. The image of the ideal leader was strongly associated with competence, patriotism, decisiveness, and the capacity to ensure national security. The study contributes to understanding political attitudes in contemporary Armenia and illustrates how collective perceptions of insecurity shape political evaluations and expectations.