ArmInfo.The EU closely follows all the processes in Armenia, including the forthcoming elections to the Council of Elders of Yerevan. This was stated in an interview with the Armenian service of Radio Liberty by the head of the EU delegation to Armenia Petr Svitalsky.
According to him, one must understand that this is not a nationwide election, and it is too early to draw far- reaching conclusions based on them. Svitalsky also recalled that these elections will be organized according to the old Electoral Code. "We believe that there are all prerequisites for holding democratic and free elections," the ambassador said.
He also stated that the election campaign is very stormy, and the closer the election day, the higher the intensity of passions, which in fact is one of the criteria of democracy. "We are somewhat concerned about the rise in the social networks of the propaganda of hatred and insults, but this is in all European societies," he said. The ambassador also expressed the conviction that it is necessary to establish a dialogue, there must be a debate involving all, which will also address the issue of how to deal with the propaganda of hatred. The Ambassador expressed his belief that Armenia itself must find a way out of their situation. "Propaganda of hatred is a serious challenge, as it can kill public dialogue, many good people can simply refuse to be involved in political processes, so as not to be targeted for attacks," Svitalsky said. He also believes that the authorities should not be a part of this propaganda, should avoid this in every possible way.