Not Everyone Can Afford Such Large Sums: Sukiasyan on Those Avoiding Military Service

During a session of the National Assembly, MP Khachatur Sukiasyan addressed his colleague from the ruling party, Hayk Sargsyan, asking, "Why didn’t you consider that such large sums are not affordable for everyone? If you are raising this issue to bring these people back, for example, I can propose a better option: these individuals could come and work in Armenia, pay income tax, and generate some value, creating additional value in my country."

Referring to the proposed amendments to the military service law suggested by Sargsyan, Sukiasyan added, "In the 1990s, many people left with false documents, submitting various applications that do not correspond to reality, and that is also a problem for us, as we want those people to come to Armenia and contribute in some way, to reside in Armenia. You seem to be chasing the money rather than solving the problem; that is the impression I’m getting."

Hayk Sargsyan then remarked that they were not pursuing money with the proposal, stating, "Those who have not served have their peers who have. They need to fill that gap. Let them serve; if they cannot serve because they already have a family, a child, or other incompatible circumstances, they can pay a sum and serve for a shorter period. If they do not wish to serve, they must pay a larger sum."

Sukiasyan further noted, "Since the 1990s, there have been various reasons, different families, and varying mindsets among people. Now, if we want to somehow regulate this issue, we must not chase after money again. The worst thing is when any citizen avoids military service; however, we also know the difficult times we’ve faced. Let’s approach this issue not just in financial terms but find a way to encourage our citizens to return and contribute in some meaningful way to our country."