​​ Homeland, Belonging, and Return: Push–pull Factors of Armenian Repatriation During the Russia-Ukraine Conflict

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.46991/JOPS/2025.4.12.087

Keywords:

Armenian repatriation, Russia–Ukraine war, migration, push–pull factors, integration policy, repatriation system, Armenian diaspora, post-conflict development

Abstract

This article examines both push and pull factors influencing the repatriation of Armenians in the context of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict and subsequent full-scale war. Based on secondary analysis of statistical data, sociological research, and qualitative materials, including in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, the study identifies key political, social, and economic push factors driving emigration from Russia and Ukraine, including fear of ongoing war, uncertainty, instability, and deteriorating economic conditions. The article also explores key pull factors attracting Armenians to their homeland, including the desire for a safer environment, cultural and social ties, a sense of belonging, a more comfortable lifestyle, and a desire to contribute to the development of their country. Potential factors pushing for repatriation within Armenia are also highlighted, including an underdeveloped repatriation system, persistent security concerns, economic difficulties, limited infrastructure, limited opportunities for professional advancement, and low wages. Taken together, these findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex motivations driving Armenian repatriation in a context of regional instability.

Author Biographies

  • Nvard Melkonyan, Yerevan State University

    2008 - now Associate Professor of Department of Sociology, Yerevan State University, Faculty of Sociology
    2005 - 2008 Assistant Professor of Department of Sociology, Yerevan State University, Faculty of Sociology
    2007- now Lecturer , Yerevan State University, Distance Learning Laboratory
    2005 - now Lecturer , Department of Postgraduate Additional Education, Yerevan State University
    2001 - 2005 Lecturer, Department of Sociology, Yerevan State University, Faculty of Sociology

  • Yuliana Melkumyan, Yerevan State University

    PhD in Sociology, Associate Professor, Head of the Chair of Social Work and Social Technologies of the Faculty of Sociology at Yerevan State University

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Published

2025-12-31

Issue

Vol. 4 No. 3(12) (2025)

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Public Policy

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Copyright (c) 2025 Nvard Melkonyan, Yuliana Melkumyan

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Melkonyan, N., & Melkumyan, Y. (2025). ​​ Homeland, Belonging, and Return: Push–pull Factors of Armenian Repatriation During the Russia-Ukraine Conflict. Journal of Political Science: Bulletin of Yerevan University, 4(3(12), 87-106. https://doi.org/10.46991/JOPS/2025.4.12.087

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