Armenia Initiates Criminal Cases Against Armenian Apostolic Clergy
Armenian authorities have initiated criminal cases and travel bans against top clergy, prompting Etchmiadzin to defend Church autonomy.
YEREVAN, ARMENIA — On January 31, 2026, criminal cases were reportedly initiated against members of the Supreme Spiritual Council of the Armenian Apostolic Church, accompanied by travel restrictions, raising serious concerns about interference in the Church’s internal affairs.
According to the official statement from Holy Etchmiadzin, clergy members face charges of obstructing the execution of a court decision. Summonses were issued demanding their appearance before the Investigative Committee, and the clergy have been prohibited from leaving Armenia. The Church characterized these actions as a targeted campaign of pressure, arguing that they violate fundamental human rights and disrupt the normal functioning of the Armenian Apostolic Church, including preparations for the upcoming Assembly of Bishops in Austria.
Holy Etchmiadzin called on Armenian authorities to act strictly within the Constitution and existing legislation, emphasizing the Church’s right to autonomy and urging respect for legal frameworks in dealings with the clergy. The Church affirmed its commitment to uphold canonical order despite these external pressures.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Armenia's PM signed a church-reform roadmap amid controversy.
