Statement by Ms. Syuzanna Martirosyan, Third Secretary of the Permanent Mission of Armenia, at the ECOSOC Meeting on the Transition from Relief to Development

16 June, 2026

Mr. Chair,

Excellencies,

We thank the speakers for their presentations and for highlighting the challenges and opportunities associated with advancing durable solutions for internally displaced persons in an increasingly complex humanitarian environment.

The number of internally displaced persons worldwide has doubled over the past decade, reflecting the growing scale and complexity of humanitarian crises. Women, children, older persons, and persons with disabilities continue to face heightened risks and persistent barriers to accessing essential services and opportunities.

Armenia recognizes the profound impact that displacement can have on both affected populations and host communities. Our experience has demonstrated that sustainable responses to displacement require coordinated action that brings together humanitarian, development, and other relevant actors around shared objectives.

Following the humanitarian crises in our region, Armenia, in close cooperation with United Nations agencies, has advanced policies and frameworks aimed at supporting the protection, inclusion, and long-term integration of vulnerable groups through approaches grounded in the humanitarian-development-peace nexus.

Armenia continues its close cooperation with relevant UN bodies and experts with the aim of improving its internal legislation on IDPs in line with best international practice. This engagement reflects our commitment to strengthening national frameworks that better protect and support displaced populations.

We are of the view that a successful transition from relief encompassing adequate and unhindered humanitarian assistance to affected communities and attention to those in the most vulnerable situations, to long-term and sustainable development must remain human-centered. Such an approach should ensure that displaced persons are not only protected but also empowered to rebuild their lives through inclusive and sustainable pathways.

In this context, access to adequate housing, education, healthcare, and social protection should form an integral part of national development strategies. At the same time, greater coherence among United Nations entities, international financial institutions, and development partners is essential to support nationally led transitions, strengthen resilience, and sustain recovery efforts.

Ultimately, only through coherent, inclusive, and adequately resourced approaches can we ensure that internally displaced persons are not left behind and are able to enjoy equal opportunities to participate fully in society.

I thank you.

MFA RA
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