Armenia increases defense budget and faces child care facility scrutiny

Armenia's draft 2027 state budget proposes a 9.5% increase in defense spending, totaling 613 billion AMD. Military analysts offer differing views on the motivation behind this hike. One analyst, Eduard Arakyelyan, suggests the increase may be driven by specific programs, such as weapons procurement or an increase in contract soldiers, rather than an immediate anticipation of military escalation. Another expert, Hayk Nahapetyan, expressed concerns regarding the potential for non-targeted spending, noting that increased budgets do not always translate into effective defense against current threats if funds are not managed efficiently.

Separately, the Human Rights Defender's Office conducted an unannounced monitoring visit to the Yerevan Child Care Center. The inspection revealed several systemic issues, including physical infrastructure that fails to meet international standards, such as a lack of elevators and non-compliant sanitary facilities. Additionally, monitors noted instances of improper food labeling and concerns regarding food quality. The findings, which include both systemic and specific issues, will be compiled into a report with recommendations for relevant authorities.