Misconceptions about Armenia

There are some common misconceptions in the diaspora about Armenia and these can influence peoples’ decisions to move, or even visit their cultural homeland. Maybe you have heard stories from family and friends, or had a bad experience years ago. Here we will address two of the main misconceptions about Armenia.



1. Armenians in the diaspora are too different to those in Armenia

Most Armenians will be aware that there are some differences between Armenian’s living in Armenia and those in the diaspora. Let’s be honest, these differences were inevitable due to the very different experiences caused by the genocide, Soviet influences and influences of host countries. What is true for all, is that every Armenian community has experienced struggles, tragedies and triumphs in one form or another. It is crucial that these are acknowledged to help everyone understand the different perspectives and opinions of each other.



On the other hand, there is much more that unites Armenians, than divides them! Here are just a few reminders of the shared values for all Armenians:

- Hope for the future – Armenians all over the world feel passionately about supporting a strong and successful homeland. There are opportunities for everyone to have a positive contribution to the future of Armenia.

- Hospitality – Armenians are warm and welcoming people. Whether you are in Gyumri, L.A. or Sydney, Armenians will welcome you in and provide you with an endless supply of delicious food and drink!!

- Pride in culture – When the Kochari starts, do you feel your heart swell with pride? Well you can bet that those in Armenia are feeling the same!

- Close family ties – Armenian families are notoriously protective and close knit, this is true for both those in the diaspora and in Armenia. Whether you have a tatik and papik or metz-mama and metz-baba, the chances are you have felt the overwhelming (maybe even suffocating?!) love of your family.



Now about those differences, let’s embrace them! For example, do you come from a small Armenian community in the diaspora? Then you can use your ability to create strong social connections to support your new neighbours! Perhaps you are adjusting to the different work hours and expectations in Armenia, try to see this as an opportunity to reassess what is important in life and slow down! Isn’t that what self help books have been trying to achieve for decades!? And lastly, look for the positive contributions from each other, I know so many are enjoying the amazing cafes, restaurants and food stalls opened by newly arrived Syrian-Armenians!The most important thing is that Armenians from all over the world empathise with and support each other, let’s celebrate the shared values and use the differences as an advantage!

2. Life is harder in Armenia

Moving to a new country is hard, especially if you are under the impression that life will be more difficult. Many in the diaspora have heard stories in the past about how life has been difficult in Armenia or perhaps they were even warned not to come. Yes, there have been difficult times, but things have changed and improvements are being made all the time!

Two common concerns about moving to Armenia are perceived issues with healthcare and safety. As the comparisons below show, Armenia’s living conditions are comparable to other diaspora host countries around the world. Further to that, we are seeing Armenia go from strength to strength and anticipate these conditions getting better and better!!!



Healthcare





COUNTRY HEALTHCARE U.S. Healthcare in the U.S. is notoriously expensive and privatised. Health insurance is vital so people are not left with large out of pocket bills, but insurance premiums are expensive and there can still be high out of pocket costs. Healthcare is paid for by a combination of private health insurance and public health programs such as Medicaid and Medicare. However, these programs are limited and private health insurance is required for all to ensure adequate healthcare coverage. France The French Healthcare system provides universal healthcare for all in France. It is funded through citizen, government and user contributions. Whilst there are some challenges caused by an ageing population and economic difficulties, French people are generally very happy and proud of the French healthcare system. England In England, the NHS provides healthcare, including primary care, to all permanent citizens and is funded through taxation. There are some out of pocket costs, however most healthcare is covered under the NHS. Private healthcare and private health insurance is available and used by a small percent of the population. Australia Australia has a universal healthcare system. Primary and allied healthcare services are provided to Australians under the taxpayer and government funded Medicare system. Higher income earners who do not have private health insurance are charged the Medicare Surcharge Levy. There are some incentives in place to encourage people to have Private Health Insurance. Argentina Healthcare in Argentina is organised around three providers. Public healthcare, mutual or social plans (administered by trade unions) and the private sector. Public healthcare is administered at a local level and therefore can vary across the country. Free or highly subsidised healthcare is provided through public healthcare for about 50% of the population. There can however be long waiting lists which makes people choose other options to obtain medical treatment. Canada Due to the taxpayer-funded Medicare system, Canadians do not pay out of pocket expenses for essential healthcare services. However, many have supplemental private health insurance to cover the costs of services not covered, such as dentistry and prescription medication. Armenia’s Basic Benefits Package (BBP) covers two groups. The first being the general population which receives free primary healthcare. The second category is for “socially insecure and special groups” who receive greater coverage. Also, in June 2019 the Armenian government approved a proposal to provide free universal health coverage to all Armenians under 18 years of age. However, it is important to note that healthcare in rural areas is not as accessible as in the cities. There can be out of pocket expenses for things not covered by the BBP and Repat can assist you with affordable health insurance to ensure you are adequately covered.

Crime Rates and Safety