The Formula for Happiness According to Female Parliamentarians

April 7 has been celebrated by our ancestors since ancient times as a day dedicated to the goddess Anahit, a celebration of beauty and motherhood. Following the adoption of Christianity, the significance of the day was emphasized and appropriately appreciated, being attributed to the Virgin Mary. April 7 has been included in our national calendar since 1995. Regarding the symbolism of the day and the role of women in politics, a correspondent from the 'Hayastani Hanrapetutyun' newspaper spoke with female parliamentarians from various factions. Each one has her own formula for achieving happiness and success.

Lilit Makunts, Head of the 'My Step' Faction
– What does this holiday mean to you?
– Over the years, I have become more convinced that calendar days serve merely a symbolic role for us. Of course, it is important to have a special day where we all emphasize and speak openly about our appreciation for mothers, in addition to valuing them every day. I admire all the women who, besides being caring mothers, serve as outstanding examples for their children, including as fully-fledged members of society through their work, ambition, and values.

– How valued and recognized are women in our times?
– In my assessment, women in Armenia today have all the opportunities to express themselves fully as professionals and visionary citizens. If they desire, they strive for and obtain the best education, and we do not get discouraged by difficulties, viewing them as opportunities to become better. However, certainly, the perception of women in our society is still far from what I would like to see. There is underestimation and skepticism from many, including from women themselves, notably not only towards other women but also towards themselves.

– Is it difficult for women in politics?
– Yes and no. As women, we try to change the perceptions of women’s roles in society. At the same time, I believe there is also a need for changes in the perceptions held by male politicians.

– What would you like to see in the modern Armenian woman?
– An educated, ambitious, resilient, successful woman, well-groomed, who manages everything, has her own opinion, and believes that societal reform also depends on her.

– What do you wish for our women and girls?
– I wish to compare ourselves only with ourselves and become better than we were yesterday, not to prove anything to anyone, but with the understanding that true happiness and charm lie in being complete and harmonious.

Anna Kostanyan, Member of the 'Enlightened Armenia' Faction
– What does this holiday mean to you?
– For me, this holiday primarily signifies the day of the Annunciation of the Holy Virgin; it is a day of blessing for women awaiting the joy of motherhood, according to the Armenian Apostolic Church. Unlike March 8, April 7 to me embodies the exceptional gift given to women by God—the ability to give life—whereby women, by their nature, resemble the Creator. This is the meaning underlying this beautiful spring holiday.

– How valued and recognized are women in our times?
– In the modern world, despite the fact that some countries, societies, or environments still do not fully appreciate women as beings with equal rights, we live in times where women, through their lifestyle, essence, content, and activities, awaken respect for themselves. Appreciation itself is not simply given; women earn it or 'demand' it when society, represented by men, refuses to accept the invaluable roles and missions of women. Yes, it is a mission because, in my opinion, women have their mission in any environment—family, workplace, or social-political life.

– Is it difficult for women in politics?
– I have often remarked on this; it largely depends on what values your political force carries. The 'Prosperous Armenia' party was among the first to ensure the representation of women in its electoral lists, which is also reflected in the number of female parliamentarians who made it to parliament. Thanks to this smooth transition and the support of my colleagues, I found entering politics quite easy. However, for women, the difficulty in politics often comes from the stereotypes present in certain layers of society. Very frequently, instead of discussing the ideas or proposals of female politicians, society discusses their appearance, body structure, clothing, and more. I hope that in the future, women holding public office will no longer face such attitudes.

– What would you like to see in the modern Armenian woman?
– First and foremost, a strong, self-confident woman free from false stereotypes. No matter what social position you hold, dear women, these three qualities are essential.

– What do you wish for our women and girls?
– On this day, I wish for them to love and be loved, to be valued and appreciated. Taking this opportunity, I sincerely congratulate the women of our nation on this holiday with its beautiful meaning. Moreover, I wish all our women good health and happiness. May each of them find and hold on tightly to their formula for happiness.

Lusine Mkrtchyan, 'Hayastani Hanrapetutyun' Newspaper