YEREVAN, Armenia — On November 15, American University of Armenia (AUA) alumni gathered for another event in the Wine & Talk series organized by the Office of Alumni Relations. The evening featured Dr. Arman Tatoyan, chair of AUA’s Master of Arts in Human Rights and Social Justice program, and Dr. Vahram Ter-Matevosyan, professor in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences.
With extensive experience in their respective fields, the distinguished speakers offered their insights and perspectives regarding the overall geopolitical situation and legal dynamics between Armenia and Azerbaijan post-2020. Topics of discussion included Azerbaijan’s policies of disinformation and misinformation and their influence on Armenian society; Azerbaijan’s autocracy in the context of a global rise in authoritarian rule; and the delimitation and demarcation process of Armenia’s borders. Drs. Tatoyan and Ter-Matevosyan also addressed the mass exodus of Armenians from Artsakh, including the right of return and its international legal basis, as well as the Azerbaijani authorities’ ongoing policies of racism and xenophobia against Armenians as the root causes of grave human rights violations.
Approximately 30 alumni from various graduating years and programs gathered in the Faculty Lounge, eager to engage in discussions. Held in an informal setting with wine and snacks, they sought out new connections, asked thought-provoking questions during the Q&A session, and explored timely issues in a friendly atmosphere. Alumni also gained exclusive insights into the results of a previously unpublished survey.
Wines were generously provided by MOONQ, founded by AUA alumnus and President of the International Center for Human Development Tevan Poghosyan (MPSIA ’96). All proceeds from the event were directed to the Alumni Scholarship Endowment Fund.
Founded in 1991, the American University of Armenia (AUA) is a private, independent university located in Yerevan, Armenia, affiliated with the University of California, and accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission in the United States. AUA provides local and international students with Western-style education through top-quality undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs, promotes research and innovation, encourages civic engagement and community service, and fosters democratic values.
