The intellectual needs in Armenia itself constitute an important programming area for the Armenian Communities Department. It focuses on strengthening research and critical engagement with current issues that are of paramount importance to the country, and more broadly to Armenians around the world. The Department supports major policy-oriented research projects, provides institutional support to research centres, and funds the Armenian translations of trend-setting international publications and their dissemination.

Serious, balanced, and evidence-based research, as well as the availability of internationally important texts through Armenian translations, lead to greater ability to address key national problems, broaden critical approaches, and prepare a solid basis for policy development.

Critical thinking and intellectual creativity, especially in the social sciences, needs to be augmented in Armenia as well as in the Diaspora. It also needs to be done in the Armenian language. Hence the importance of this line of action.

Projects in this area of focus can include, but are not limited to, the following activities:

1. Armenia and Armenian-related research projects and publications (print and electronic) on relevant topics and their circulation.
2. The translation and dissemination of important works in various languages, which have not been made available in Armenian to date.
3. Events and initiatives, including conferences, seminars, courses and summer schools, as well as other relevant academic undertakings, that emphasise critical thinking and innovation – especially if they engage youth as active participants – with a clear link to policy development.
4. Other projects that enhance critical thinking and research on current issues, including strategically important initiatives for the development of Armenia, including targeted institutional support.

First-rate research and excellence in critical thinking are the bedrock for solid policy development. Without them, misconceptions emerge and individuals as well as societies take wrong decisions. This pillar in the Department’s 2023-27 strategic plan emerged from the disastrous events during the last several years.