The Velvet Revolution Paradox: Serzh Sargsyan Prospers After Being “Overthrown”

Arthur Hambardzoumyan appeals to the expert community for an explanation of the paradox: how Serzh Sargsyan’s influence has endured following the so-called Velvet Revolution.

"In 2005, a revolution took place in Kyrgyzstan - Askar Akayev barely managed to flee the country. In 2010, another revolution followed, and this time Kurmanbek Bakiyev fled as well. In 2003, Georgia saw the Rose Revolution, and Eduard Shevardnadze’s influence dropped to zero. In 2013–2014, during Ukraine’s revolution, Yanukovych fled the country. Otherwise, I believe he would have been caught and possibly killed. But in 2018, a non-violent Velvet Revolution took place in the Republic of Armenia. The country’s third president, who was supposedly overthrown, not only remained in Armenia but also retained his influence - and continues to prosper alongside his inner circle.”