Journalism Awards for Outstanding Coverage of Mining Issues

The results of the “Mining 2025” journalism competition were announced as part of the international “Mining Armenia 2025” Forum. The awards were presented by Susanna Martirosyan, Vice President of the Association of Mining and Metallurgy of Armenia, and Anna Baghdasaryan, Head of the Economic Journalists Club.

According to Shushanik Kerobyan, a sector expert, coverage of the mining industry in Armenia’s media landscape remains insufficient. She noted that most coverage consists of explanations provided by specialists, while mining-related issues are largely presented through questions raised by non-governmental organizations, which, in her view, are not always well-founded.

The expert emphasized that changing public attitudes requires significant effort from both the private and public sectors. In her view, it is crucial how the industry is covered in the media—or whether it is covered at all.

For the third consecutive year, the Economic Journalists Club and the Union of Miners and Metallurgists of Armenia have jointly organized an awards ceremony aimed at promoting professional coverage of the sector. Susanna Martirosyan, Vice President of the Union, highlighted the importance of accurate and professional media coverage of the industry. Anna Baghdasaryan, President of the Club, noted that 120 pieces published in more than 50 media outlets were reviewed, with 18 selected for the shortlist.

The six-member competition jury, composed of sector experts including editors and economists, conducted a thorough and meticulous review before selecting the top five entries.

Gevorg Avchyan of the “Ankakh” website won the “Best Analytical Article” category for his piece titled “To Attract Investment in the Mining Sector, Armenia Does Not Speak the International ‘Language.’”

Nairi Muradyan of Armenia TV received the “Best Television Report” award for his report titled “Renewable Energy and the Introduction of Green Technologies in Armenia’s Mining Sector.”

Gayane Khachatryan of Factor.am received the “Best Investigation” award for her article titled “Where Does Armenia’s Gold Go? Gaps in Oversight in Armenian Mines.” The “Best Print Publication” award went to Liana Gyozalyan of Golos Armenia for her article “From Stench to Reclaimed Pastures.”

Hayka Aloyan of Hraparak.am received an Encouragement Award for her piece titled “Two-Headed Children, Three-Legged Calves: What Myths Are Circulating?” Shushanik Kerobyan, a mining sector expert, stated that she would like to see Armenian media coverage of the industry begin with a description of the production process, including discussion of shortcomings and gaps. “Objective and critical assessments of mining companies can only be beneficial,” the expert concluded.