Nikol Pashinyan

Founds opposition newspaper

Pashinyan establishes his newspaper as a critical voice against Armenian government corruption. The publication brings him recognition among dissidents but minimal financial success.

Arrested after election protests

Pashinyan goes into hiding then is arrested for his role in protests against disputed elections. His imprisonment makes him a symbol of opposition to the establishment.

Elected to Parliament

After his release, Pashinyan wins a parliamentary seat and continues his activism against government corruption. His political platform grows as economic frustration mounts in Armenia.

Leads Velvet Revolution

Pashinyan spearheads massive peaceful protests that force Prime Minister Sargsyan's resignation. The bloodless revolution captures international attention and catapults him to global prominence as a democratic reformer.

Becomes Prime Minister

Parliament elects Pashinyan as Prime Minister following the revolution. His reform agenda and anti-corruption efforts make him a celebrated figure in Armenia and among pro-democracy movements worldwide.

Nagorno-Karabakh war defeat

Armenia's devastating loss in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict severely damages Pashinyan's standing. Mass protests demand his resignation, though he retains power through early elections.

Peace process with Azerbaijan

Pashinyan pursues controversial peace negotiations with Azerbaijan, ceding Nagorno-Karabakh claims. While drawing international support, the moves alienate nationalist voters and erode his domestic popularity.

Embattled reformer holds power

Pashinyan remains Armenia's Prime Minister but his revolutionary promise has dimmed significantly. He's well-known for leading the 2018 Velvet Revolution, but is increasingly criticized domestically for territorial concessions. His international profile has declined from its 2018 peak, though he remains a recognized figure in post-Soviet politics.