The Role of Returning Armenians in Revitalizing the Homeland
Historical Context and Diaspora Impact
The History of the Armenian Diaspora is a history as old as Armenia itself. Since the days of the Armenian merchants whose influence stretched from Antwerp to India, Armenians have participated in the growth of Armenia from beyond its borders. In modern times, the Diaspora has been instrumental in Armenia’s growth and prosperity since its independence from the Soviet Union.
Over the years Diasporans have sent billions of dollars in aid to Armenia through different NGOs, charities, and to the Armenian government directly. Unfortunately, a growing country needs more than money, it needs the human factor. Thankfully however, there are millions of Armenians around the world that are highly skilled in every craft there is, that would be welcomed to Armenia to showcase their craft and talents.
Motivations to Return
Currently, there is a huge demand for every type of professional and person in Armenia, and the stage is set for anyone with any sort of disposition to thrive.
- If you are interested in professional work, marketing agencies, conservation (animal and ecological), media outlets, NGOs, IT companies, are always looking for hard working and creative individuals.
- If you are an artist skilled in anything between sculpting to dancing, there are organizations that are in need of talented musicians, painters, photographers, singers, fashion designers, filmmakers, actors, and writers to name a few.
- If you are looking to make a larger impact, Armenia is a fantastic place to start a company. Whether it is a land development company, IT company, event planning company, NGO, humanitarian organization, or even just a bed and breakfast on the face of a mountain, you will find that your path will be supported by locals, other repats, and the government as well.
These are just a few of the ways Diasporans can help revitalize Armenia by being present in Armenia. But it is important to know however, that it's not only through your profession that you can help Armenia thrive.
Couples often come to Armenia seeking a safer environment with a more fulfilling, higher quality of life for themselves and their children.
- Mothers are often happier raising their children in Armenia+
- Outdoor enthusiasts come to Armenia in search of a more raw and enriching nature experience
- Music lovers take full advantage of the endless concerts and music festivals that are hosted in Armenia
- Students come and study at the internationally accredited and acclaimed universities such as UWC Dilijan and AUA
- Foodies can't get enough of the rich flavorful tastes of Armenia.
So if you are a family man, mother, outdoorsman, music lover, or student, foodie, Armenia has a place waiting for you.
Contributions to Armenia’s Revitalization
Many Armenians who have chosen to repatriate have often revitalized the country simply by doing their job and following their path in life.
- Araz Kekejian repatriated from Lebanon and co-founded All For Armenia and is currently the CEO.
- Vahe Keushguerian repatriated from Italy and founded and cofounded WineWorks, EVN Wine Academy, Keush and OSHIN.
- Sara Anjargolian repatriated from the United States and co-founded Impact Hub Yerevan and sat as the former Chief of Staff at the High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs.
Challenges and Barriers to Integration
While repatriating can be among the most rewarding things you will ever do for yourself, like anything else worth doing, it has its challenges.
There is a language barrier in Armenia for those who don’t speak Armenian or Russian. And while this is getting better day by day, there is still a long way to go before even the cab drivers speak fluent English.
Many Armenians are still set in their ways left over from Soviet times. Travelers don’t often notice this but it is predominantly associated with the older generation, so there is a desire to welcome people from around the world to shed a new light on the population's disposition, giving you yet another reason to repatriate.
The paperwork in Armenia can be an issue, from getting your residency, to citizenship, to your driver’s license, you may have to spend some time waiting in line. In reality however, Armenia is no different than any other country when it comes to bureaucracy, you just have to get it done.
But one thing you do not have to worry about is being supported.
There are many NGOs, including Repat Armenia, that are ready and willing to help you get through whatever issue you may be having, and you will be welcomed to Armenia every step of the way.
We usually encourage diasporans to only come to Armenia if they believe they will thrive in Armenia and to not repatriate solely for the love of the country.
However, even in the days of the Julfa merchants, the reputation and influence of Armenia grew by the hard work of the merchants. Armenia thrived because of their success. When repatriating, we encourage you to follow the path that you set out to follow and virtually everyone around you will help you in your cause, because when you succeed, Armenia succeeds.
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