After explaining the AGBU dedication to Armenia on politics, economy, and education as well as social and humanitarian issues, Alexis Govciyan, AGBU Europe Chairman, added “It is an honor and a privilege for us to be here today in Armenian territory which reminds us our commitment and duties to Armenian people and the respect with which we must act”.

His Excellency, Mr. Manassaryan and Alexis Govciyan as well as AGBU Sofia representatives and leaders of the AGBU Europe have laid a wreath at the memorial Khachkar in Sofia erected in the “Yerevan Park “.

The following day, the European Board convened at the Sheraton Hotel discussing different topics regarding continuation of establishing a strong presence in the various European institutions, whereby AGBU will advocate Armenian-related issues as well as encourage the European chapters to be more involved with AGBU agenda, especially in AGBU Youth programs in Armenia.

Specific points of discussion proposed by AGBU Sofia chapter followed the meeting: Saturday school, kindergarten and Community Center’s creation as well as fundraising campaign for Armenian Church construction and Youth activities.

In the same evening, board members had the opportunity to enjoy the AGBU Sofia Chamber Orchestra concert attended by political and cultural dignitaries of the capital Sofia.

On May 23, the guests traveled to Plovdiv in order to get acquainted with the activities of AGBU Plovdiv chapter and to exchange views and ideas about the future of the organization. In addition to members of the European Board, guests attending the AGBU Plovdiv meeting and cultural events included AGBU Sofia Chairwoman Mrs. Sonia Bedrossian, and representatives of AGBU Plovdiv associated branches-Haskovo, Yambol, Dobrich, Sliven, Silistra as well as YP Plovdiv and Bourgas groups.

Children of AGBU Plovdiv Saturday school recited Armenian poems and performed “ Nazar the Brave”, Hovhannes Toumanyan, Armenian famous writer work. The public was very excited by children’s performance in Armenian language.

The meeting continued on specific topics proposed by AGBU Plovdiv and its associated branches: Saturday school methodical materials modernization, youth seminars and cultural exchange programs.

A gala dinner was organized by Sofia chapter in the presence of numerous political leaders, some of them involved in the 2009 June European elections. At this very memorable evening, full of joy and good spirits members of the AGBU Europe have personally made generous donations to support the wonderful work done by AGBU Sofia Chapter and for the AGBU causes.

The main goal of the conference was to discuss EU policy of interest to Armenians and prospects for the next legislature. The conference themes included highlights on the policies that are related to the Armenian Diaspora, culture and education. Issues related to Armenia, such as the prevention of resumption of war in Nagorno-Karabagh, the threat to the Armenian cultural and architectural heritage outside Armenia, and many other concerns were discussed.

The conference hosted representatives of major UK parties and other honorary guests. The panel comprised candidates for the Member of European Parliament (MEP): Ms Ute Miche, the Green Party, and Mr Jonathan Fryer, the Liberal Democrats. Apologies were received from representatives of Labour, UK Independent and Conservative parties.

The honorary guest Baroness Cox, from the British House of Lord, made the opening speech. Lady Cox briefed about issues current to Armenia and Nagorno-Karabagh. She talked about the progress made and the challenges still ahead for Armenia and Armenians. Baroness Cox talked about her experience when visiting the region and the works published afterwards.

The panel sessions and discussions were moderated by Nicolas Tavitian – AGBU Europe board member. Mr. Tavitian posed a set of questions that were addressed by the panellists. Additionally, Ms Miche and Mr Fryer positioned their statement on the policies on humanitarian aid in the Caucasus and the acknowledgement of the Armenian genocide. The MEP candidates also covered topics directly related to the Armenian Diaspora such as education, multilingualism and intercultural dialogue within the European Union.

Somewhat 110 participants attended the conference of which many represented Armenian organizations operating in the UK. The Q&A session allowed the attendees to take an active participatory role by raising questions and engaging in discussion with the panellists. The refreshments served shortly after the closing remarks gave the participants a chance to mingle and speak to the panellists in a less formal environment.

This conference was the second initiative of its kind, organized by AGBU to strengthen the link between the Armenian Diaspora in the UK and the political leaders in Europe. This event, we believe, raised awareness of the issues that are of great concern for the Armenian Diaspora and encouraged mutual understanding.

For more information on AGBU London activities and events click here

AGBU Europe has launched a pre-electoral campaign asking candidates in the European elections for their positions on seven key issues that impact Armenia, Karabakh and Armenians in Europe.

All information about this campaign can be founded at http://campagneelectorale.agbueurope.org/

AGBU is pleased to announce the appointment of Gerard Tufenkjian as chair of the AGBU District Committee of Lebanon.

Tufenkjian will replace outgoing chair, Avedis Demirdjian, who served for many years as the head of AGBU Lebanon and continues to be one of the organization’s most generous benefactors.

AGBU Lebanon oversees the activities of one of the most influential districts of the world’s largest Armenian non-profit organization.

Tufenkjian is a prominent Lebanese businessman and a lifetime member of AGBU. He is an alumnus of AGBU’s Hovagimian-Manoogian School in Lebanon and is active in numerous Lebanese organizations.

As chair, he will manage AGBU Lebanon’s vast array of programs, institutions and community groups, which includes the state-of-the-art AGBU Demirdjian Community Center, three high-achieving Armenian day schools (Tarouhy-Hovagimian Middle & Secondary School, Levon Nazarian Elementary School and Boghos Garmirian Elementary School), two medical dispensaries, and a network of scout, athletic, youth groups and the Vahram Papazian Theatre Group which fall under the umbrella of AGBU’s Armenian Youth Association (AYA).

Established in 1910, AGBU Lebanon has been a major hub of the Armenian diaspora and a breeding ground for future leaders of the Armenian community worldwide, including AGBU’s current president, Berge Setrakian, who began his involvement in Armenian affairs through AGBU Lebanon’s AYA division.

“AGBU Lebanon has always played a central role in both the global Armenian community and Lebanese society. It continues to reach out and touch the lives of all Lebanese, while remaining committed to AGBU’s mission to preserve and promote the Armenian identity and heritage through educational, cultural and humanitarian programs. AGBU Lebanon demonstrates that in the global village the strength of any community lies in its ability to step fearlessly into the future with a strong sense of its heritage,” Setrakian said. “Tufenkjian will play a role in ensuring that AGBU Lebanon continues to innovate and respond to the needs of the next generation.”

AGBU Lebanon has chapters in Amanos, Antelias, Beirut, Sin El-Fil, Tripoli and Zahlé, and awards scholarships to dozens of students in Lebanon. Its athletic program, administered by AYA, is renowned throughout the Arab world and its AGBU-Antranik Girls team clinched the Lebanese championship for the seventh consecutive year last month and, by doing so, set a record in Lebanese sports history.

The team has also won the Arab Women’s Basketball Championship title numerous times.

The AGBU Demirdjian Center is a major hub of community activities for Armenians and non-Armenians alike in the northeastern suburbs of Beirut. The Center hosts well-attended classes, sporting events, cultural activities and a modern health club facility.

To view the press release in Armenian please click here

The AGBU Armenian Virtual College (AVC) is pleased to announce the opening of its enrollment period for Summer Term 2009.

Sixteen courses are being offered during this term covering three topics: Eastern Armenian Language for Beginners, Western Armenian Language for Beginners, and Ancient History of Armenia.

Each course is thought in one of six languages: Western Armenian, Eastern Armenian, English, French, Russian and Spanish.

The classes for the Summer Term 2009 start on Monday, June 15, and end on August 14.

For enrollment, please visit the AVC portal at www.avc-agbu.org , create your log-in and submit your enrollment application for the virtual course(s) you select by midnight June 13.

For more details, please contact: info@avc-agbu.org.
AVC enables Armenian education anytime anywhere!

AVC is an Internet-based accredited distance learning program that aims to facilitate Armenian studies through new technologies. AVC provides Armenian courses in history, language and culture (architecture, fine arts, literature and music). AVC will tailor lessons to suit each student’s needs, thus ensuring that Armenians from around the world, regardless of their age, country of residence or knowledge level, will benefit from the resource. For more information, click here

AGBU’s newest Young Professionals group, YP Hamburg, has already convened to discuss their 2009 activities.

The new group has been working on events that will bring together members of the local German Armenian community.

For more information about YP Hamburg and their activites, please email yp.hamburg@agbueurope.org

In June 2009, many of the one million Armenians in Europe will have a chance to vote in the European elections. Their vote could affect the future of Armenia or that of the Diaspora: the European Union makes important decisions for all Europeans, including Armenians around Europe.
The campaign consists in asking candidates in every EU country 7 questions on relevant EU policies and in publishing their answers. This will provide Europeans, Armenians included, with information to help them choose between candidates on election day. Crucially, it will raise awareness among candidates, and remind them that their electors care about these issues.

Relevant EU policies include those that concern Armenia’s future European integration and the newly launched Eastern Partnership, policies on culture, language and freedom and justice; peace-making in the South Caucasus and the future of Nagorno-Karabakh; and Turkey’s accession prospects and the recognition of the Armenian genocide.

With this campaign, the organisation hopes to encourage Armenians in Europe to form an opinion on EU policies and to use their vote knowingly. The campaign also intends to generate debate and raise awareness among future members of the European Parliament about these important questions.

The Armenian Diaspora in the EU is estimated at around one million. Though the Diaspora has a very long history in many European countries, most European Armenians trace their roots to the Republics of Turkey or Armenia. For more information on Armenians and Europe, see www.insideeurope.eu

Individuals and organizations interested in raising these issues with their candidates to the European elections are encouraged to contact them and publicize their answers. All information about the campaign, including the 7 questions, answers received and the contact coordinates of the main political parties running in the European elections in each country can be found at: http://campagneelectorale.agbueurope.org/

Contacts:
Flora Hakobyan : press@agbueurope.org
Anush Nazaryan : anush.nazaryan@insideeurope.eu

AGBU Athens Women committee organized a lecture on Armenian National Art on May 10 2009 at 11:30am, at the Greek National Art Gallery in Plaka .

Yanovla Calani, Director of the Gallery, explained the strong relationship between Greek and Armenian nations underlining that the historical memory was more powerful that any type of violence.

Anna Balyan, Ottoman Art Museum scientific worker, described the important role of Church in the Art creation and compared the Armenian and Greek religious artistic materials moved from Middle Asia.

Avetik Isahakyan poem recitation in Greek language was presented by Mrs Basmajyan as well as the Komitas Vardapet works and other compositions were played during the event.

Click here to download the press release in Armenian language

At the roundtable, Dr Galishian presented his recent book: ‘The Invention of History: Armenia, Azerbaijan and Showcasing of Imagination’. The Round table was organized jointly by AGBU Europe and Inside Europe and took place on the premises of the Heinrich Böll Foundation.

The round table aimed to highlight the mounting propaganda campaign in Azerbaijan against Armenia, which involves the rewriting of history and the large-scale destruction of architectural heritage in the country. The roundtable was conducted according to Chatham House rules.

This campaign is of serious immediate concern because it is building up a deep-seated hostility towards Armenians among the Azeri population, based on a fanciful rewriting of history, thus increasing obstacles to conflict resolution. But it is also of much concern because the propaganda is accompanied by an extensive campaign of destruction of Armenian historical monuments in Azerbaijan.

This campaign of destruction is best known by the destruction, in 2005, of the 17th century Djulfa Cemetary. A European Parliament delegation was denied permission to enter Azerbaijan to investigate the case at the time. Galichian’s research, furthermore, has revealed that all the 1000 or so Armenian churches that existed in the Nakhitchevan region of Azerbaijan have been destroyed.

These destructions allow Azerbaijani authorities to deny the historical presence of Armenians on their territory and even in the South Caucasus as a whole. This is part of a radically revisionist history whose effects Galichian fears may come to be felt in the field of politics or even on the battlefield.

There are parallels between this process and the policy that Turkey long conducted where Armenians had once lived. Armenians have witnessed the eradication, in Turkey, of much of the considerable heritage (mostly buildings) that existed in that country, and of a parallel rewriting of history to remove all traces of the Armenians. In contrast to Azerbaijan however, freedom of expression is increasingly a reality in Turkey, where many have taken the opportunity to acknowledge this destruction and are now seeking to preserve, recover or remember what remains of Armenian heritage.

Invoking the spirit of the European institutions, several participants at the meeting agreed that that it is irresponsible for a government to foment hostility, and that they should instead prepare their public opinion for peace.

This was followed by a debate on this difficult subject. Participants included individuals from EU institutions, diplomats, and members of the expert and NGO communities, including Azeris and Armenians. After the roundtable, Dr Galichian met individually with a number of EU officials to further discuss his research.

Goriz, the new program dedicated to the future leaders of the Armenian Diaspora in Europe

Goriz first seminar took place in Venice, Italy, a major Armenian Cultural place, from 1 to 3 May 2009. Participants and speakers stayed at Collegio Samuel Moorat Raphaël where the seminar also occurred in a beautiful room also very well equipped. 19 participants from Belgium (1), France (5), Germany (5), Spain (4), Bulgaria (3) and Italy (1) attended the seminar. All were young Armenian professionals living in Europe, selected according to the quality of their studies and professional background, capacity of leadership, motivation and involvement in the Armenian community of their country.

To start with, the objectives of the seminar were recalled by Alexis Govciyan, Nadia Gortzounian and Nicolas Tavitian. They also recalled that the idea of Goriz emerged after Brussels and Valence Seminars organized by AGBU Europe, which had already proved the necessity to train and accompany future leaders of the Armenian Diaspora in Europe to face the 21st century challenges. Lobbying, media training, visits of the European institutions, the work will indeed be on European level. Goriz is also a recognition that we are working on the long-term. In a few years, we will be able to measure success.

Debate on Economic and political issues related to Armenia
•    Annie Jafalian, Professor at the Jean Moulin-Lyon III University geopolitical analyst, specialist of the Caucasus and AGBU Europe Board Member, presented three main topics:
•    Armenia’s institutions
•    Nagorno Karabagh
•    Armenias’s international policy

Alexis Govciyan presented the example of CCAF (Co-ordination Council of Armenian organisations of France) which is the representative body of the French-Armenian Community. It unites the major political, cultural, educational, religious and social organisations of the Armenian community.

After AGBU-HAIK presentation of its aims and activities in Germany, Ioanna Vauthier followed by the presentation of AGBU Europe activities and goals.

Alexis Govciyan and Nicolas Tavitian presented the relationships between Armenia and Turkey and a debate occurred between participants and speakers.
Nicolas Tavitian, lobbying specialist, highlighted some key theoretical points to know about how to build an efficient lobbying strategy. First, he stressed on the need for people working in institutions to get some information and advice about Armenia and its Diaspora. Indeed, they often do not know a lot about it.“Lobbying” is a mean to influence the policy of an institution. A “policy” refers to what the institutions are planning to do and what they think about you.

Participants have been gathered in five groups of about four people from various countries and backgrounds. They were asked to think about a lobbying action that could be implemented around one of these 3 axes:
- Social integration
- Image regarding public authorities
- Education and self awareness

Other presentations
Yervant Zorian, AGBU Central Board Member, presented the Armenian Virtual College, the first virtual Armenian school. 50% of its goals are to promote the Armenian Culture and language and 50% are to interact with other Armenians (“virtual friends”). It is mostly aimed at High School and University students but also general public. Courses of Armenian languages, history and culture are available in 6 languages.
Armen Verdian presented the project he is now working on in Armenia consisting in providing women from the North of Karabagh with cows for a determined period and then providing other women with it once they it has had babies. The constat was that food lacked in this part of Karabagh. The objective is to secure a source of revenue and to feed those women who are often widows with numerous children. The project had a good impact on population, more than 1000 children already benefited from it.

AGBU-HAIK presented the Armenian presence in Germany (media, organizations, leaders…) and the situation of the Armenian Diaspora (social and political).

Discovery of the Armenian Venice
Goriz participants had the great chance to stay and attend the seminar in Collegio Armeno Moorat Raphaël and also to discover the beautiful San Lazzaro Island. On Friday 1 May afternoon, they visited San Lazzaro Monastery Museum with a Mekhitarist priest and then had a captivating tour of the Armenian Venice with Samuel Karapetyan from Collegio Armeno Moorat Raphaël (Armenian inscriptions on San Marco Basilica entrance columns, Armenian street and Armenian Holy Cross Church).

On Sunday 3 May, the group was invited to attend the mass and have lunch with the Mekhitarist community. During the lunch, Alexis Govciyan thanked the priests for their support and recalled Goriz objectives and how important it is for future Armenian leaders of the Diaspora to know their heritage and culture. Father Kechichian answered by saying that it he was very happy to welcome those young Armenians in their Monastery because they are the heirs of their spiritual and cultural wealth. The young generation is the future of the Armenian people and therefore they must preserve their history, culture and language.

Next Goriz activities
Alexis Govciyan said at the end of the seminar that it is just starting and there is no conclusion to say. He affirmed that this was the beginning of Goriz Program which will be followed by many other activities. Media training and round tables with journalists are planned in November 2009 in Paris and the visit of the Armenian Institutions in Yerevan in April 2010, coinciding with the 95th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. The feedback questionnaires sent right after Venice Seminar will enable AGBU Europe to always improve its activities and fit to participants’ expectations and needs.