The Armenian parliamentary elections scheduled for May 30th of this year, may become 
a turning point for Armenia’s economic future.  Ten years of democracy with 
democratically elected government leaders has fallen far short of Armenia’s economic 
expectations--in large part, because of the ongoing blockade of Armenia by Azerbajian 
and Turkey.   And adding to this, the possible corruption by high-ranking elected officials 
who may be looting monies from foreign loans and grants for personal gain.


Mr. Garen Demirchian, a made-over Communist leader from the past, but who carries a 
lot of support among the people, has stated, "What we need if a comprehensive state 
program to revive our industry and agriculture."  This man headed Soviet Armenia from 
1974 to 1988 and is currently well thought of by many of the Armenians over there.


In addressing his Peoples Party of Armenia during a political rally, Mr. Demirchian 
stated, "There has been no area where progress is discernible.  This formally industrial 
country has been deindustrialized and looted over the past ten years."  Whether he is 
playing out a political hand which even his socialized democracy can’t correct or 
alleviate, or if in fact there is truth in what he’s saying, leaves the people of Armenia with 
a lot of soul searching to do before the coming parliamentary elections in May.


Without a doubt, the economic conditions in Armenia are still below depression levels.  
Aside from this, there is an enormous disparity between the influential wealthy minority 
compared to the poverty levels of income that the present majority of Armenians are 
living with.  If it wasn’t for the fortunate few who have left the homeland, and who help 
the remaining members of their families with incomes that they earn outside of Armenia, 
the level of suffering and destitution over there would be considerably worse.


In the past, I have heard condemnation being voiced by some of our patriotic stalwarts 
faulting those who left Armenia for greener pastures.  But if push came to shove, I believe 
even they would have to agree that remaining poor and destitute is not a good example of 
being patriotic.


Armenia can endure and Armenia will endure, if and when Armenia’s elected leaders 
come to realize that an impoverished, disenchanted, and forsaken people are not what 
strong nations are made of.  The foundation of a nation is built on the ‘vejag’ of its 
people.


As my proud immigrant father used to say when he faced discrimination in America, 
"You laka me, I laka you.  If you no laka me, you can go to h*ll." 


Joseph Vosbikian