Independence Generation: Attitudes Toward Democracy and Government

The "classic" Western left-right ideological spectrum makes little sense to Armenians. When asked about specific issues related to economics and the distributive role of the government, most Armenian youth are rather "socialist", favoring increased state responsibility in providing welfare and reducing inequalities. Competition as a positive force is the only liberal ideological element, unequivocally embraced by the independence generation. At first glance, it might seem that young Armenians are satisfied with democracy. A closer look reveals that Armenian youth pay lip service to democracy, without a clear understanding of what it is and without a firm commitment to it.