United Nations in Armenia

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Armenia:

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20 February 2026

Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2026-2030

On December 19, 2025, the Armenia - UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2026 - 2030 was signed by the Government of Armenia and the United Nations. “We are signing this Framework of Cooperation at a crucial stage for Armenia’s development. The decisions made today will shape the country’s development path for decades to come. Our common goal is to serve the people of Armenia, especially those who are most vulnerable. 2026 will be a people-centered year, marked by developments that emphasize trust, inclusiveness, and social cohesion,” stated UN Resident Coordinator Françoise Jacob.

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19 December 2025

The Cooperation Framework 2026-2030 Officially Signed

The Armenia - UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2026 - 2030 was officially signed by Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan, on behalf of the Government of Armenia, and UN Resident Coordinator in Armenia Françoise Jacob, on behalf of the United Nations. The signing ceremony brought together representatives of state departments and ministries of the Republic of Armenia, heads of UN agencies in Armenia, and other state institutions, underscoring the strong and continued partnership between the Government and the United Nations. In his welcoming remarks, Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan emphasized, "Our new framework of cooperation is fully consistent with the priorities of the Government and provides an opportunity to combine development policy with Armenia's peace agenda. This allows us to have a unified, coordinated and future-oriented programmatic cooperation."UN Resident Coordinator Françoise Jacob presented the key pillars and strategic direction of the Cooperation Framework, noting its significance at a pivotal moment for Armenia’s development. “We are signing this Framework of Cooperation at a crucial stage for Armenia’s development. The decisions made today will shape the country’s development path for decades to come. Our common goal is to serve the people of Armenia, especially those who are most vulnerable. 2026 will be a people-centered year, marked by developments that emphasize trust, inclusiveness, and social cohesion,” she stated.

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The representatives of state departments and ministries of the Republic of Armenia and heads of UN agencies in Armenia at the CF 2026-2030 signing ceremony.

Press Release

01 August 2025

Armenia and Georgia Enhance Collaboration on Grapevine Nurseries and Digital Vineyard Data Systems

Recognizing the vital importance of preserving this cultural and agricultural legacy, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has been actively supporting sustainable viticulture efforts in both countries. Building on this commitment, FAO Armenia and FAO Georgia joined forces to organize a study tour for the key players in advancing Armenia’s wine sector.This study tour, organized under the project “Digital Technologies in Support of Agriculture Value Chains and Rural Development,” focused on two key priorities for Armenia: the establishment of certified grapevine nurseries and the effective rollout of the Vineyard Register System (VRS) - a national digital platform designed to enhance vineyard oversight, certification, and planning.This activity was initiated by FAO Director-General QU Dongyu after his visit to Armenia in 2024, during which he highlighted the importance of regional knowledge-sharing and scientific cooperation among countries with shared agricultural assets.This visit built on years of groundwork laid by FAO to support Armenia’s viticulture sector. In 2017, a demonstration vineyard was established in the Armavir region with FAO support and later transferred to the Vine and Wine Foundation of Armenia. Today, the site continues to serve as a national resource for research, training, and promotion of sustainable vineyard practices.Currently, FAO continues to support the Foundation in one of its strategic priorities - developing a unified electronic information system to ensure full traceability and quality control throughout the wine production process. This innovative system will enable precise tracking of vineyard data, grape production volumes, and varietal origins, leading to enhanced transparency and higher sector standards.FAO Regional Programme Leader for Europe and Central Asia, and FAO Representative in Armenia and Georgia, Raimund Jehle, referred to this opportunity for knowledge and information exchange as a valuable platform for fostering regional collaboration, enhancing capacity, and promoting sustainable agricultural development across both countries. “This study tour highlights the power of regional cooperation in driving agricultural innovation. By sharing knowledge and practical solutions, Armenia and Georgia are laying the foundation for more resilient, modern, and inclusive agrifood systems that can benefit rural communities and strengthen their wine sectors for the future” Jehle said.The study tour to Georgia, held in Tbilisi and the Kakheti region - widely recognized as the heart of Georgian winemaking - brought together a diverse group of Armenian experts and officials. Participants included representatives from the Ministry of Economy’s Departments of Plant Breeding and Agro-processing, senior staff from the Vine and Wine Foundation of Armenia, and a senior economist from FAO. Over two days, the delegation engaged in targeted meetings and field visits with leading Georgian public and private institutions. The programme offered an in-depth look at successful models for certified grapevine nursery development, advanced digital vineyard register system, and innovative practices for climate-resilient grapevine cultivation - highlighting practical solutions that could support Armenia’s ongoing reforms in the viticulture sector. A guided winery tour offered an inside look at production methods and the philosophy driving Georgian winemaking excellence.Equally valuable was the opportunity to exchange experiences on data collection and digital monitoring systems. At the National Wine Agency of Georgia, participants gained in-depth understanding of the country’s certification processes and the rigorous controls applied to planting materials. A detailed demonstration of the digital vineyard register system illustrated how real-time vineyard mapping and systematic data management are seamlessly integrated into national inspection and certification frameworks.Reflecting on the experience, Zaruhi Muradyan, Executive Director of the Vine and Wine Foundation of Armenia, stated that “On the threshold of digitalization of the viticulture and winemaking sectors in Armenia, it was interesting to get acquainted with Georgia’s experience in using digital tools and certified nurseries. It shows that a systematic approach can ensure quality control, starting from the vineyards to the wine market. In addition, the visit to Georgia also provided an opportunity to study the experience of effective cooperation between the public and private sectors.”This regional exchange represents a key step toward modernizing Armenia’s grape value chain. With continued support from FAO and knowledge gained from Georgia’s experience, Armenia is advancing toward a viticulture sector that is resilient, competitive, and built on a base of certified planting materials and smart digital solutions.

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Press Release

02 July 2025

UNICEF and Partners Expand Inclusive Preschool Education Across Armenia

Despite notable progress in increasing preschool enrollment across Armenia - particularly among children aged 3–5, where gross enrollment rose from 63.6 to 68.6 per cent in 2023–2024 - significant disparities remain. A major bottleneck is the limited number of preschool facilities, especially in rural and underserved areas, which continues to hinder the realization of inclusive and universal early learning for all children in Armenia.To address this gap, in 2024, UNICEF - with funding from Education Cannot Wait Foundation - embarked on supporting target communities across Kotayk, Armavir, Ararat and Vayots Dzor that had welcomed refugee families to establish and equip new learning spaces, including water and sanitation facilities. As a result, 13 new learning spaces were set up in eight kindergartens, allowing 350 children, including 180 refugee children, to participate in preschool education.To ensure effective functioning of these new learning spaces, 230 educators and caregivers were trained in inclusive pedagogy, positive parenting, psychological first aid, and emergency preparedness. The training modules were based on the Nurturing Care Framework, launched by WHO, UNICEF and the World Bank, which emphasizes health, nutrition, safety, early learning, and responsive caregiving. Age-appropriate educational materials were also provided for children attending the new learning spaces as well as other preschool groups, benefitting a total of 5,000 children.“This initiative goes beyond infrastructure - it’s about inclusion and giving every child the opportunity to access early learning,” said Silvia Mestroni, UNICEF Deputy Representative in Armenia. “Research shows that children who attend preschool are more likely to perform better academically and socially later on. Early childhood education is a right that should be guaranteed for every child. Investing in it benefits children, families, and society as a whole.”Deputy Mayor of Artashat Suren Mkrtchyan expressed: “I am very happy that this kindergarten will now be able to welcome over 50 new children. Thanks to this collaboration, many children in Artashat and other communities are benefiting greatly - and that is what I am most proud of.” UNICEF Armenia’s National Ambassador and the Founding Artistic Director and Principal Conductor of the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra, Sergey Smbatyan also joined to mark the occasion. “We must join forces and rally around ideas that help improve the quality of life for children and provide them with better development opportunities. Every child deserves the chance to learn, grow, and thrive - and today, we saw that vision in action. I’m honoured to be part of this journey,” shared Mr. Smbatyan, inviting members of the Orchestra to perform well-loved cartoon themes for children, emphasizing the role of music in early development.

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Press Release

03 July 2025

UN Supports Armenia to Enhance Border Security and Counter Terrorism

The three-day consultation focused on introducing Advance Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) systems that contribute towards an enhanced national capacity to improve the use of international databases to identify, detect, and intercept known and suspected terrorists and criminals. The consultations were held under the auspices of IOM Armenia, in the framework of the United Kingdom-funded project, “Enhancing the Capacities of Armenian Authorities in Border Security and Crime Prevention.”The United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) in partnership with IOM Armenia facilitated the national consultations to identify specific capacity-building support and technical assistance needs based on the national counter-terrorism architecture, priorities and the assessment of the Armenia’s existing level of API and PNR implementation at the legal, operational, and technical levels.During the opening remarks UN Resident Coordinator in Armenia Françoise Jacob stated “It is an important milestone in Armenia’s efforts to enhance border security, counter terrorism, and uphold international commitments. Armenia’s formal request for support under the Programme is a clear demonstration of its commitment to meeting international obligations under United Nations Security Council Resolutions 2178, 2396, and 2482. I therefore commend the Government for convening a truly multisectoral dialogue that brings together all relevant national stakeholders, including from aviation, security, justice, and data protection authorities. This whole-of-government approach is essential to ensuring that Armenia’s system is effective, interoperable, and aligned with global standards—particularly those related to data privacy and personal freedoms. I would also like to acknowledge the pivotal role played by the IOM Office in Armenia in supporting the organization of this workshop, and to thank our colleagues from UNOCT, CTED, UNODC, ICAO, UNOICT, INTERPOL, and IOM as well as OSCE for their technical expertise and commitment to this joint effort.”“The UK is pleased to support Armenia as it begins to introduce Advance Passenger Information and Passenger Name Record systems. These tools will help to strengthen Armenia’s border security, tackle serious cross-border crime and make international travel safer. This work is part of the UK’s wider support to help Armenia build a modern border security system that meets international standards. We are proud to work with IOM and Armenian authorities on this important step towards a safer and more secure region,” said Paul Morris, Chargé d’Affaires of the British Embassy in Yerevan. Over three dozen representatives from national agencies of Armenia responsible for border management and passenger processing participated including: the National Security Service (NSS), Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), Migration and Citizenship Service (MCS), State Revenue Committee (Customs), Police of the Republic of Armenia, Ministry of Justice, General Department of Civil Aviation/Civil Aviation Committee (CAC), Zvartnots International Airport Authority, Ministry of High-Tech Industry, Airlines operating in Armenia, Agency for the Protection of Personal Data (under the Ministry of Justice), Human Rights Defender of Armenia (national ombudsman), INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) Armenia, Financial Investigation Unit.Participants mapped existing national border management capabilities and discussed next steps to establish a national system to collect and process passenger data, in accordance with international standards and recommended practices and human rights principles. “We look forward to collaborating with UNOCT as well as all the relevant UN specialized agencies and partner organizations to implement the API/PNR systems in Armenia”, - mentioned Arman Hovhannisyan, Head of the department of international security. “At a time of heightened geopolitical tensions and evolving security risks, enhancing Armenia’s ability to collect, process, and analyze passenger data is not only timely—it is vital. Situated at a strategic crossroads between Europe and Asia, Armenia’s proactive approach in advancing its border security architecture will contribute to regional stability, global security, and the protection of its citizens and visitors alike. The growing number of border crossings in Armenia indicates that the introduction of the API/PNR systems is very timely and critical. Thus, I want to thank the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Security Service for their leadership, as well as UK government for supporting this initiative and all other partners”, - stated Ilona Ter Minasyan, IOM Armenia’s Head of Office.UNOCT CT Travel Programme Management Officer Mr. Motaz Al-Rababah highlighted the importance of the discussions and noted, "The introduction of the systems will mark the next milestone in Armenia’s border management journey. By enabling predeparture risk assessment, API and PNR will sharpen the ability to detect high risk travelers and uphold the integrity of international civil aviation. CTED and the CT Travel Programme stand ready to sustain this partnership, offering ongoing guidance and assistance in support of Armenia’s objectives."As a next step, the CT Travel Programme will finalize a comprehensive roadmap with recommendations to guide implementation in Armenia via a phased approach. Once the roadmap is formalized, the CT Travel Programme will work with national partners to provide technical assistance to enhance Armenia’s legal framework, operational capabilities, support with transport industry engagement, and technical infrastructure including the planned deployment of the United Nations’ owned ‘goTravel’ software solution. This full support will empower the country to further enhance its national security, comply with international counter-terrorism obligations, and modernize its immigration and border management processes. Within the framework of the CT Travel Programme, UNOCT and IOM are working together to develop and strengthen Member States’ API and PNR capabilities. This includes joint efforts to support interoperability between the UN ‘goTravel’ system. This initiative is expected to provide front-line border control officers with enriched passenger data, enabling facilitation of legitimate travelers, and allowing the Government to allocate resources towards those who pose a risk to national security.For more information about the CT Travel Programme, click here.For further information, please contact:Nune Asatryan, IOM Armenia, Project Coordinator, nasatryan@iom.int Antoine Andary, Associate Public Information and Communications Officer, UNOCT at antoine.andary@un.org

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09 December 2025

UN Armenia Marks International Day of Persons with Disabilities

The event brought together representatives of Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) and UN agencies in Armenia under the theme “Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress.”Opening the event, UN Resident Coordinator Francoise Jacob underscored that IDPD is a call to action. She reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to regular consultations with OPDs and to advancing disability rights through the upcoming Armenia-UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2026-2030. UNICEF Deputy Representative Silvia Mestroni highlighted the importance of dialogue and diversity as foundations for building inclusive communities. A panel discussion explored the gap between policy reforms and lived realities. Participants highlighted persistent challenges in implementing disability-related legislation, ensuring access to services, promoting inclusive education, and expanding employment opportunities. Speakers stressed the need for faster progress, stronger collaboration among stakeholders, and the meaningful participation of persons with disabilities in decision-making processes.Representatives from UNICEF, UNFPA, WHO, and UNDP presented ongoing initiatives aimed at advancing disability inclusion across sectors.The event concluded with a cultural programme celebrating the creativity and contributions of persons with disabilities. The programme featured a choir from the Special Education Complex for children with hearing impairments, performances by Hasmik Peleshyan of the Equal Rights Equal Opportunities NGO, and an art exhibition by young artist Jim Hovhannisyan.

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27 October 2025

UN80 Celebration in Armenia: Honoring Shared Progress and a Sustainable Future

The UN80 celebration began early in the morning on Armenian Public TV’s “Aravot Luso” program. At noon, the celebration continued at the UN House in Yerevan with an official flag-raising ceremony, bringing together staff members from all UN agencies in Armenia to mark eight decades of global cooperation and solidarity. In the evening, the guests joined the official celebration and explored the “Shared Lives, Shared Future” exhibition - a vivid journey through Armenia’s historical milestones and the United Nations’ long-standing partnership with the country. The exhibition highlighted shared efforts to enhance people’s quality of life, promote human rights, and advance sustainable development. Running alongside was a Biodiversity Exhibition, dedicated to Armenia’s extraordinary natural heritage - one of the world’s 34 biodiversity hotspots. This captivating display celebrated Armenia’s rare and endangered species, including those listed in the Red Book of the Republic of Armenia, while underscoring the importance of continued conservation and environmental stewardship. In her opening remarks, Ms. Françoise Jacob, UN Resident Coordinator in Armenia, invited guests to immerse themselves in both exhibitions, highlighting Armenia’s early and enduring commitment to environmental protection. “I love that Armenia’s first international commitment was to the environment,” she noted. “And next year, as host of COP17 for biodiversity, Armenia will once again raise the torch - leading efforts to preserve the integrity and beauty of our planet.” Among the distinguished guests was Mr. Mher Grigoryan, Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia, who expressed deep appreciation for the strong partnership between the Government of Armenia and the United Nations. “We highly value our programmatic cooperation with the UN in Armenia,” he stated, “which has greatly contributed to the establishment of democratic institutions, the protection of human rights, the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, and the protection of refugees and other vulnerable groups.” The formal segment concluded with a symbolic cake-cutting ceremony, followed by a warm reception where guests enjoyed UN80-branded photo opportunities and became part of the commemorative exhibition - taking home photo souvenirs to remember the occasion. As the festivities drew to a close, the spirit of the day echoed a profound truth: the UN80 celebration in Armenia was not only a reflection on past achievements, but a renewed promise to work together for a more peaceful, inclusive, and sustainable future for all.

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UN Staff at the UN House on UN80 Celebration Day

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16 October 2025

Her Majesty Queen Mathilde of the Belgians Visits UN-Supported Programmes in Armenia

Following a thematic discussion with UN agencies, Her Majesty visited several UN-supported programmes across Armenia, witnessing firsthand how communities, institutions, and partners are working together to advance the Sustainable Development Goals. As part of her visit, Her Majesty visited the Avan Mental Health Centre, where she was warmly welcomed by Minister of Health Anahit Avanesyan and WHO Representative in Armenia Dr. Siddhartha Datta. The visit highlighted Armenia’s ongoing mental health reform - a transformation led by the Ministry of Health with support from the World Health Organization and partners, ensuring better access to quality mental health services for all. Her Majesty also visited the Norashen Nature Reserve within Sevan National Park, underlining Armenia’s efforts in biodiversity conservation and sustainable development. Welcomed by Deputy Minister of Environment Aram Meymaryan, UNDP Resident Representative in Armenia Natia Natsvlishvili, and local leaders, the Queen was presented with the new Sevan National Park Management Plan, developed with UNDP support - the first major update in nearly 14 years. In Tsaghkunk, Gegharkunik, Her Majesty visited a UNICEF-supported alternative preschool, celebrating the importance of early childhood education and joyful learning. The preschool was established in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports, the Sevan Community, and with financial support from the European Union - offering children a safe, inclusive, and stimulating environment to learn and grow. The final stop of the visit was the Mission Armenia Social Services Centre, a UNHCR partner organization supported by the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs and UNHCR. Here, Her Majesty met with refugees and vulnerable families, witnessing how community support and social inclusion are helping people rebuild their lives and strengthen resilience. Her Majesty Queen Mathilde’s visit to Armenia reaffirmed Belgium’s solidarity and partnership with Armenia on its path toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals - a journey inspired by Her Majesty’s steadfast global advocacy for sustainable and inclusive development.

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21 August 2025

Armenia Advances Foot-and-Mouth Disease Control with FAO and EuFMD Support

Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) remains one of the most serious transboundary animal diseases worldwide. It is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads rapidly among cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs. FMD spreads rapidly through direct contact between animals, contaminated feed and products, aerosols, or even equipment, vehicles, and clothing. The disease causes severe economic losses for farmers in Armenia and impacts food security situation․ To stay ahead of the threat, Armenia is working closely with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the European Commission for the Control of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (EuFMD), the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) through the Progressive Control Pathway for FMD (PCP-FMD). This regional cooperation has strengthened early warning systems, promoted harmonized vaccination strategies, and improved national preparedness to respond to potential outbreak.From 18 to 20 August 2025, Yerevan hosted the National PCP-FMD Workshop which gathered government official, veterinary experts, farmers’ organizations, and international partners to advance Armenia’s National FMD Control Strategy. The workshop, organized under the “Move FAST – GET Prepared” strategy of EuFMD, with FAO support marked an important milestone for Armenia as the newest member of EuFMD. Over the three-days, participants were introduced to practical tools and methodology to assess the economic costs and benefits of FMD control measures in Armenia. Discussions focused on refining research questions, reviewing existing data, and designing an evaluation of long-term vaccination strategies. The goal was to provide Armenia with a clear, evidence-based framework to guide decision making and to ensure that results inform national policies for disease prevention and control.High-level meetings with the Ministry of Economy and the Chief Veterinary Officer following the workshop underscored Armenia’s commitment to grounding FMS prevention and control in science and strong regional cooperation.

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Press Release

06 February 2026

FAO Armenia Advances Agrifood Systems Through New Country Programming Framework

The CPF is being shaped through an inclusive and iterative consultation process with government counterparts and development partners. In this context, FAO Armenia convened a national and international partners consultation on 30 January 2026 to present the current draft CPF and exchange views on its strategic focus. The consultation marked an important milestone in the CPF development process, while recognizing that the framework will continue to evolve in response to emerging priorities, opportunities, and lessons learned.The CPF will provide strategic orientation for FAO’s technical assistance and policy support to strengthen agrifood systems, improve rural livelihoods, and promote inclusive, resilient, and environmentally sustainable agriculture, in close alignment with national strategies and the UNSDCF.The consultation brought together representatives of the Government of Armenia, development partners, and the United Nations Country Team in Armenia. It was opened by the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Robert Abisoghomonyan; the Head of the Department of Agricultural Programs Elaboration at the Ministry of Economy, Ira Panosyan; the FAO Representative in Armenia, Raimund Jehle and the United Nations Resident Coordinator, Françoise Jacob. Discussions focused on areas where FAO’s comparative advantage can add the greatest value, complement partner initiatives, and enhance coherence and impact.Participants highlighted the importance of strong partnerships, effective coordination, and ensuring that FAO-supported interventions reach women, youth, and vulnerable groups while delivering measurable results on the ground.FAO reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the Government of Armenia and partners throughout the CPF development and implementation process to advance resilient agrifood systems, support rural livelihoods, and contribute to sustainable and inclusive development in Armenia.

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Press Release

05 February 2026

"Deepfake abuse is abuse". Statement by UNICEF on AI-generated sexualised images of children

“Deepfakes – images, videos, or audio generated or manipulated with Artificial Intelligence (AI) designed to look real – are increasingly being used to produce sexualised content involving children, including through “nudification,” where AI tools are used to strip or alter clothing in photos to create fabricated nude or sexualised images.“New evidence confirms the scale of this fast-growing threat: In a UNICEF, ECPAT and INTERPOL study* across 11 countries, at least 1.2 million children disclosed having had their images manipulated into sexually explicit deepfakes in the past year. In some countries, this represents 1 in 25 children – the equivalent of one child in a typical classroom.“Children themselves are deeply aware of this risk. In some of the study countries, up to two thirds of children said they worry that AI could be used to create fake sexual images or videos. Levels of concern vary widely between countries, underscoring the urgent need for stronger awareness, prevention, and protection measures.“We must be clear. Sexualised images of children generated or manipulated using AI tools are child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Deepfake abuse is abuse, and there is nothing fake about the harm it causes.“When a child's image or identity is used, that child is directly victimised. Even without an identifiable victim, AI-generated child sexual abuse material normalises the sexual exploitation of children, fuels demand for abusive content and presents significant challenges for law enforcement in identifying and protecting children that need help. “UNICEF strongly welcomes the efforts of those AI developers that are implementing safety-by-design approaches and robust guardrails to prevent misuse of their systems. However, the landscape remains uneven, and too many AI models are not being developed with adequate safeguards. The risks can be compounded when generative AI tools are embedded directly into social media platforms where manipulated images spread rapidly.“UNICEF urgently calls for the following actions to confront the escalating threat of AI-generated child sexual abuse material:All governments expand definitions of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) to include AI-generated content, and criminalise its creation, procurement, possession and distribution. AI developers implement safety-by-design approaches and robust guardrails to prevent misuse of AI models.Digital companies prevent the circulation of AI-generated child sexual abuse material – not merely remove it after the abuse has occurred; and to strengthen content moderation with investment in detection technologies, so such material can be removed immediately – not days after a report by a victim or their representative.“The harm from deepfake abuse is real and urgent. Children cannot wait for the law to catch up.”Notes for editors: This statement reflects positions outlined in UNICEF's Guidance on AI and Children 3.0 (December 2025).* This new data forms part of Disrupting Harm Phase 2, the second phase of a research project led by UNICEF’s Office of Strategy and Evidence – Innocenti, ECPAT International and INTERPOL, with funding from Safe Online. The project examines how digital technologies facilitate child sexual exploitation and abuse, and generates evidence to help strengthen national systems, policies and responses.As part of this phase, national reports with country-level findings will be released throughout 2026. The estimates presented here are based on nationally representative household surveys implemented by UNICEF and IPSOS across 11 countries. Each survey included one child aged 12–17 and one parent or caregiver, using a sampling design aimed at achieving full or near full national coverage (91–100%). level findings will be released throughout 2026. The estimates presented here are based on nationally representative household surveys implemented by UNICEF and IPSOS across 11 countries. Each survey included one child aged 12–17 and one parent or caregiver, using a sampling design aimed at achieving full or near full national coverage (91–100%).Further methodological detail is available at: https://safeonline.global/dh2-research-methods_final-2/

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Press Release

29 January 2026

Armenia Launches Joint UN Programme to Unlock Sustainable Finance for Climate-Smart and Nutrition-Sensitive Food Systems

Under the leadership of the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Armenia, Françoise Jacob, and with support from the UN Joint SDG Fund, the Government of Armenia, together with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), officially launched the Joint Programme “Unlocking Sustainable Finance for Nutrition-Sensitive, Climate-Smart Food Systems Transformation in Armenia” on 29 January 2026.The programme aims to advance inclusive, climate-resilient and sustainable food systems in Armenia by improving access to finance, strengthening climate-smart value chains, and promoting healthy food consumption. It supports national priorities and seeks to demonstrate scalable solutions for building resilient, environmentally sustainable, and equitable food systems.The programme focuses on four areas with direct impact on people’s lives: strengthening seed systems, advancing sustainable dairy value chains, expanding access to finance for agricultural small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and promoting healthy and sustainable [food?] consumption. Together, these interventions are expected to help farmers increase productivity, reduce environmental pressure, create rural employment opportunities and improve access to nutritious food across the country.Françoise Jacob, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Armenia said, “This programme is about investing in people - farmers, entrepreneurs and consumers - so they can be part of a food system that supports their health, livelihoods and the environment. Joint action will push the biodiversity agenda further into agricultural priorities, turning sustainable food systems into a key force for inclusive and long-term growth. This joint programme is supported by the Joint SDG Fund. We appreciate the contributions from the European Union and the governments of Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Monaco, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland in accelerating progress towards the SDGs.”The Joint Programme aligns with Armenia’s Food Security Strategy 2023–2026 and the National Food Systems Pathway 2021, while contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to food security and nutrition, climate action and sustainable economic growth.By linking policy support with practical investments, the initiative promotes climate-resilient agriculture, nature-positive production and inclusive economic opportunities.Raimund Jehle, FAO Representative in Armenia mentioned, “FAO recognizes that unlocking access to sustainable finance is essential for farmers and agrifood-SMEs to adopt climate-smart solutions, strengthen local food value chains, and promote healthy diets. As the lead agency of this Joint Programme, FAO will help translate policy priorities into concrete results on the ground.”Konstantin Sokulskiy, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Armenia, noted, “This Joint Programme, implemented by FAO, UNDP, and UNEP, introduces an outcome-based and innovative financing model that links private investment with verified improvements in milk productivity, pasture restoration, and farmer livelihoods. It demonstrates that agricultural transformation in Armenia can be both climate-smart and biodiversity-positive while generating measurable social and economic returns. Through the piloting of a Development Impact Bond in the dairy sector, UNDP establishes a transparent and performance-based financing mechanism in which public and private resources are mobilized around independently verified results, creating a new pathway for sustainable investment in climate-resilient and biodiversity-friendly food systems.”Thierry Lucas, Coordinator of Nature Action in Europe at UNEP, said, “As host of CBD COP17, Armenia has a unique opportunity to advance its sustainable food systems. By scaling agroecology, restoring degraded pastures and promoting indigenous seeds, this Joint Programme will deliver tangible benefits for farmers, biodiversity and land resilience, with concrete outcomes to be showcased at COP17.”

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Press Release

26 January 2026

Sergey Smbatyan re-appointed as UNICEF National Ambassador

YEREVAN, 26 January 2026 – Sergey Smbatyan, the Founding Artistic Director and Principal Conductor of the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra, the Principal Conductor of the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Artistic Director of the Khachaturian International Competition was re-appointed as UNICEF National Ambassador in Armenia on 24 January.Maestro Smbatyan was first appointed as National Ambassador in 2023 and since then has worked with UNICEF to advocate for positive parenting and early childhood education. In 2025, Maestro Smbatyan visited the newly renovated and refurbished Artashat kindergarten #4 in support of UNICEF’s work to expand access to inclusive early learning services for refugee and host community children.In 2024, with the support of the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra, led by Sergey Smbatyan, UNICEF lit up in blue the National Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre in downtown Yerevan for the 35th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The symbolic ceremony was followed by the inaugural concert of the 12th Khachaturian International Festival dedicated again to World Children's Day.In 2023, the Foundation for the Support of the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra, led by Maestro Smbatyan, raised funds for UNICEF through seven concerts, enabling the organization to provide multipurpose pharmacy vouchers to refugee children with disabilities. Maestro Smbatyan also met with some of the children and families who received this support.“We are delighted to renew our partnership with Maestro Sergey Smbatyan as UNICEF National Ambassador,” said Christine Weigand, UNICEF Representative in Armenia. “Over the past years, Maestro Smbatyan has used his voice, his art, and his influence to champion the rights and well-being of every child in Armenia. His commitment to early childhood education, inclusion, and children’s rights in general shows the profound impact that culture and compassion can have when united for a common purpose. We look forward to continuing our work together to ensure that every child, regardless of background or circumstance, has the opportunity to learn, thrive, and reach their full potential.”“I am pleased to continue supporting UNICEF as National Ambassador. This reappointment shows that our cooperation has been mutually effective, both for me personally and for UNICEF. What matters most to me is that I have yet another opportunity to create value for children. It is also significant that today we are highlighting our ‘Symphonic Tales’ programme, which makes classical music accessible and affordable for children starting from kindergarten. This is an integral part of our educational process, and it will have a long-term impact on the promotion of classical music,” noted Maestro Smbatyan.The appointment ceremony was followed by a panel discussion on the importance of classical music for young children’s development and in preschool education, entitled ‘Symphonic tales.’ Moderated by Anna Avanesyan, Public TV Parents Meeting show host, the panel featured Deputy Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports Araksya Svajyan, UNICEF Early Childhood Development Officer Maya Simonyan, Symphonic Das-A head of educational initiatives Tatev Adamyan, Director of Vostan kindergarten in Vagharshapat Lusine Avagyan, and Content and Development Director of Parenting School NGO Lusine Aghabekyan.As part of the panel, UNICEF and Symphonic Das-A educational programme, established by Maestro Smbatyan, introduced their joint ‘Symphonic Tales’ initiative piloted 2025. With the support of the Government of Japan, partners developed an educational module and a guidebook to encourage young children to explore the world of classical music and art, contributing to their psycho-social wellbeing. The programme has already been tested in five communities around Armenia and will soon be submitted to the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports to be further scaled up across the country.

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Press Release

15 January 2026

UNICEF and Partners Open a New Co-creation Lab for Young People in Armenia’s Far South

AGARAK, 12 January 2026 - UNICEF, in partnership with the Enterprise Incubator Foundation (EIF), the Municipality of Meghri, and with support from the UNICEF Office of Innovation, has inaugurated a new co-creation laboratory in the town of Agarak, Syunik region. The center is designed to empower adolescents and young people by providing access to modern tools, mentorship, and collaborative learning opportunities in one of Armenia’s most remote southern communities. It joins the Sisian co-creation lab established in April 2024 by UNICEF, in partnership with EIF.The newly opened center has already welcomed 70 young people during its pilot phase through awareness-raising activities and introductory training sessions. Moving forward, it is expected to serve over 100 adolescents and young people every year, offering ongoing skill-building programs, digital literacy workshops, and hands-on project development experiences.The Municipality of Agarak has played a key role in making the center a reality by allocating dedicated space within its administrative building free of charge. The municipality also covers utilities and has committed to long-term support to ensure the center’s sustainability. This investment reflects the municipality’s broader goal of expanding opportunities for local youth, enabling them not only to participate more actively in community life but also to contribute to local and regional planning and development.Established as a regional innovation and entrepreneurial laboratory, the Agarak cocreation lab provides adolescents, students, young innovators, and startups with an environment where ideas can be explored, tested, and developed into meaningful solutions. Participants will have access to non-formal education, mentorship from industry professionals, and opportunities to collaborate with peers on creative, technological, and entrepreneurial initiatives.“This lab is all about unlocking the potential of local youth. It is a space where young people can learn new skills, experiment with ideas, and create digital products that contribute to the development of Syunik marz,” noted Christine Weigand, UNICEF Representative in Armenia. “With this second co-creation lab in the region, young people will have opportunities to explore digital arts, animation, and multimedia projects, as well as take part in tech hackathons, seminars, and hands-on workshops. Most importantly, this lab will help adolescents and young people in Syunik build 21st-century skills that strengthen their confidence, creativity, and resilience.”By connecting education, industry, and entrepreneurship, the lab will help prepare young people for the rapidly evolving demands of the 21st century. Its programs are designed to strengthen digital, engineering, and business skills, while also fostering creativity and innovation. The center aims to open pathways for young people to engage with Armenia’s growing high-tech sector and to participate in promising regional development opportunities.“Our objective is to accelerate the development of the technology sector in the Syunik region and unlock its innovation potential by investing in local talent and creating opportunities for youth to thrive where they live,” said Bagrat Yengibaryan, Director of the Enterprise Incubator Foundation. “By equipping young people with practical skills, mentorship, and access to modern technologies, these labs enable youth to acquire contemporary knowledge, develop professional competencies, and create innovative solutions while living and working in their own communities. This approach not only supports local socio-economic development but also strengthens Armenia’s broader innovation ecosystem.”The opening ceremony was followed by two interactive workshops for young people held in parallel, introducing them to career paths in technology with a focus on climate change and to character development in gaming. A third parallel session was designed for parents and teachers and delivered by young participants of UNICEF’s global Gamechangers programme.

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