Vardenis, Gegharkunik. 24.09.2024 – A newly refurbished hideout has been officially opened in Vardenis, a border town in the Gegharkunik region of Armenia, as part of the "Strengthening the Resilience in Vardenis Community" project, supported by the European Union (EU) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) under the EU4Dialogue initiative. This initiative aims to enhance the safety and crisis preparedness of the local population.

The opening event brought together representatives from UNDP, the Martuni Women’s Community Council NGO, and local community leaders all united in their commitment to improving the resilience of Vardenis in the face of ongoing regional challenges.  

Through this project, the Vardenis hideout has undergone crucial repairs and been equipped with essential resources, ensuring that over 540 residents in the community and 1,500 individuals from nearby villages have access to a secure shelter during emergencies. Alongside infrastructure improvements, the project also raised awareness among local residents about the importance of knowing where shelters are located and how to act in crisis situations. In addition to directly benefiting residents, the project has provided vital aid to 26 refugee families, supplying them with household items such as kitchen utensils, home appliances, and bedding.

This newly established hideout is a critical component of a broader strategy of EU4Dialogue initiative to enhance the resilience of border communities like Vardenis. By investing in essential infrastructure and community education, the project aims to ensure that these settlements are better equipped to handle crises, making it more prepared for potential crises.

"This hideout is a powerful example of the strong partnership between the EU and UNDP in supporting local communities. Together, we are not only enhancing the safety of Vardenis residents but also building the resilience of border communities across Armenia, ensuring that no one is left behind in times of crises," said Natia Natsvlishvili, UNDP Resident Representative in Armenia

Since its launch, the EU4Dialogue initiative has implemented 16 local projects in Armenia, with an additional seven underway. The program has also provided critical training and resources to over 1,000 young Armenians, empowering them to build stronger, more self-sufficient communities.

Background Information:

“EU4Dialogue: Support to Conflict Transformation in the South Caucasus and the Republic of Moldova” is a joint initiative of the EU and UNDP under the broader EU4Dialogue programme. The project partners with local civil society organizations and grassroots groups to improve socio-economic conditions for people, refugees, build livelihoods, drive progress toward gender equality, promote youth engagement and community resilience. 

Media Contacts:

• Hovhannes Sarajyan, UNDP, +374 91 420122, hovhannes.sarajyan@undp.org 

• Salome Tarkhnishvili, UNDP, +995 557 338230, salome.tarkhnishvili@undp.org