EXCLUSIVE: The Armenian Report Documents Newly Built Wall, Road, & School in Kirants Village

The Armenian Report journalists Ani Khachatryan and Ani Gevorgyan traveled from Yerevan to the village of Kirants in Armenia’s Tavush province on Friday, July 26. Their mission was to report on the completion of road construction in the area, following reports that the project was nearing its end.

Khachatryan and Gevorgyan spent almost three months in Kirants, covering the border demarcation and delimitation that started in March 2024. Their extensive stay allowed them to closely observe the developments and the impact on the local community.

On Friday, July 26, at 4 PM, the reporters arrived in Kirants. They immediately went to the construction site to see the progress on the road and the wall, which have been under construction since May. Upon arrival, they found construction workers actively working on the road while the wall stood completed. The wall, approximately 7 meters long and 3 meters high, is part of the government's effort to enhance security in the area.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated that the wall is being built to shield students attending a new school across the border from seeing Azerbaijanis. The history of violence, including killings and torture by Azerbaijanis against Armenians, has instilled deep security concerns among the residents of Kirants. 

As Khachatryan and Gevorgyan interacted with locals, they quickly realized the reluctance of the villagers to speak on camera. Fear and security concerns were evident, highlighting the ongoing tension in the region. Despite the construction and security measures, the community still grapples with the reality of living near a volatile border.

In May 2024, the Armenian National Security Service (NSS) began patrolling the area to ensure safety. However, when the reporters tried to shoot video footage, an NSS officer approached them and prohibited recording in the vicinity. This restriction was perplexing, given that ruling party MPs had previously visited Kirants and published various videos from the border area. In contrast, opposition MPs were denied access just days ago.

Despite no visible signs indicating a no-recording zone, the reporters continued their investigation by speaking with villagers off-camera. They discovered that seven families had refused government compensation for selling their homes to Azerbaijan. In total, 50 properties, including two residential homes, three local markets, and agricultural land, are now occupied by Azerbaijan.

The local community's refusal to accept compensation reflects their deep attachment to their land and their reluctance to leave their homes despite the risks. The situation shows the complex and emotionally charged nature of border disputes.

Reports indicate that Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan is expected to visit Kirants in the coming days, possibly to inaugurate the newly constructed road and school. 

Khachatryan and Gevorgyan's reporting sheds light on the challenges faced by the people of Kirants, balancing the need for security with the desire for normalcy in their daily lives. The story of Kirants is a poignant reminder of the human impact of geopolitical tensions and the resilience of communities living on the frontlines.