“Resilience for All” project - Progress Pathways: Strengthening Resilience of Refugees and Host Communities
January 17, 2025

Yerevan, 17 January 2025 - In the Matenadaran, an important event was held today to celebrate the achievements of the "Resilience for All" project. This initiative, implemented by UNDP in Armenia with the generous funding of the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD), has made remarkable strides in enhancing the resilience of over 115,000 refugees and their host communities across Armenia.
The event was opened by the Vice President of the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia Hakob Arshakyan, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway to Armenia Bergljot Hovland, and UNDP Resident Representative in Armenia Natia Natsvlishvili. Representatives of the Government of the Republic of Armenia, the National Assembly, the diplomatic corps, the international development community, local self-government bodies, and civil society participated in the event.
Vice President of the National Assembly Hakob Arshakyan delivered a welcoming speech, emphasizing the importance of the involvement of the NA standing committees in the framework of the project. He especially noted the importance of cooperation with representatives of affected communities, civil society and international organizations, which provides an opportunity to jointly develop a policy that will not only effectively respond to the existing challenges, but also ensure impartiality and contribute to the dignified integration of refugees into the host communities.
The success of the project is a testament to the joint efforts of the Government of Armenia, UNDP and international partners such as Norway. Ambassador Berglot Hovland said: “Resilience for All” project is unique, it has been precisely designed to address the needs of both refugees and host communities. Our support is inclusive, impactful and sustainable.” She highlighted that through joint efforts, more than 6,150 refugees have improved their understanding of local law and local democracy, and have increased their participation in local decision-making processes, community-based disaster risk assessment activities.
In her opening speech, Natia Natsvlishvili noted: “The Norwegian government’s support has been crucial in enhancing the resilience and integration of both refugees and host communities in Armenia. This includes strengthening the National Assembly’s engagement with refugees and civil society, as well as providing free legal aid to 350 refugees, ensuring justice for the most vulnerable. Additionally, we have trained 1,500 local officials across 70 communities to better support refugees and host population through inclusive pilot services, and broader engagement in local decision-making. Looking ahead, in 2025 and 2026, UNDP will continue to support the government in creating economic opportunities and ensuring the full integration of refugees into their new communities.”
During the event, speakers reflected on the project’s significant achievements over the past year:
Strategic Engagement: The Armenian National Assembly has strengthened its collaboration with refugee groups, civil society, and academia, embedding resilience-building measures into legislative frameworks. Over 6000 refugee participants contributed to local decision-making processes through initiatives facilitated by the program.
Improved Access to Justice: Vulnerable groups, including refugees, have benefited from enhanced legal support systems, with strengthened National Human Rights Institutions and judiciary capacities.
Digital Transformation: The project has spearheaded the digitalization of Armenia’s address registration system, streamlining services for refugees and host communities alike.
Capacity Development and Awareness: The program has enhanced the capacities of 430 representatives and developed a communication campaign to encourage the use of newly digitized services, aiming to raise awareness among 150,000 individuals.
The event also featured a recognition ceremony honoring individuals and communities who have contributed to the project’s success. Certificates were awarded to refugee youth for completing skills development courses and to local government leaders who have strengthened community governance.
As the "Resilience for All" project enters its next phase, it will continue to focus on fostering social cohesion, enhancing local governance, and driving sustainable economic growth. The commitment to resilience and inclusion remains unwavering.
About the Project
The "Resilience for All" project, initiated in response to the influx of refugees from Nagorno-Karabakh, is built on four pillars: emergency response, sustaining core government functions, fostering inclusive economic growth, and enhancing social cohesion. With a budget of $2.28 million for 2024, the project has been instrumental in addressing immediate needs while laying the groundwork for long-term resilience.