Workers Claim Mine Operates at Full Capacity Amid Social Unrest Over Sotk Mine

Former gold miners, who used to earn 400,000 to 500,000 AMD, are now receiving only 117,000 AMD, with authorities citing a decrease in extraction volumes. However, the workers assert that the mine operates at full capacity. Analyst, journalist, and host Nairi Hokhikyan wrote on his Facebook page: "A social uprising is brewing in Vardenis due to the Sotk mine."

Yesterday, I spoke with Vardenis resident Zaven Avetian, whose sons work at the Sotk gold mine. When they received their April salaries, they were faced with this dramatic pay cut. Workers argue that the mine functions at full capacity, even with the Azerbaijani border guards having retreated in certain areas.

The residents of Vardenis have decided to express their discontent through a strike, blocking roads and railways. Zaven Avetian stated that they have been protesting since April 15, but neither the government nor the mine's management has responded adequately. I confirmed that only the Gegharkunik regional administration made unsuccessful attempts to address the issue, although it falls outside its jurisdiction.

Beyond social issues, such behavior toward the residents of border communities is at least insulting, given that they participated in the 2020 war and suffered significant losses. Zaven Avetian was injured on September 29 in Artsakh and lost his leg, but has yet to receive any financial assistance from the state. His sons also took part in the fighting; one was injured, returned, and has since resumed work at the mine.

If the mine is privately owned and can be subjected to whims, then the government is obligated to protect the interests and safety of its state and citizens. If the sector ministers hesitate or are afraid to personally engage with our compatriots and prefer to communicate on Facebook, I will personally go to Vardenis in the coming days.”