On 24–25 April 2026, ALDA organised a two-day training workshop in Gyumri, Armenia, focusing on disinformation, resilience and civic participation. The activity was implemented within the framework of the Re-Elect project, supported by the New Democracy Fund and carried out in cooperation with the Local Democracy Agency Foundation Armenia.
The training brought together 30 participants, including local activists, women and young people, with the aim of strengthening their capacity to critically assess information and actively engage in democratic processes.
During the first day, participants were introduced to key concepts and practical tools to identify misinformation, disinformation, propaganda, fake news and hate speech. Particular attention was given to recognising manipulation techniques and understanding the mechanisms behind information campaigns.
The second day focused on fostering social resilience and enhancing civic engagement, with a dedicated emphasis on the importance of gender representation in democratic processes. Participants explored strategies to promote inclusive participation and strengthen their role within civil society.
Notably, many of the young participants will be voting for the first time in the upcoming parliamentary elections. In this context, the training provided essential knowledge to support informed and responsible decision-making.
Nino Tvaltvadze shared insights from her professional experience in governance, offering practical examples and highlighting the tangible impact of civic participation. Teona Macharashvili introduced analytical frameworks and tools to assess information campaigns, drawing on concepts from applied political psychology.
During the workshop sessions, participants worked in groups to apply the knowledge acquired, analysing real-life case studies of disinformation and manipulation. The interactive format encouraged open dialogue and exchange, creating a safe space to reflect on issues affecting women and youth, while fostering social cohesion.
“The training had a strong impact on me. It made me realise how important it is to treat information responsibly, verify sources, and avoid causing harm,” one participant shared.
This initiative highlights the importance of empowering citizens with the tools and knowledge necessary to navigate complex information environments and actively contribute to democratic life.
Together with its local partner, the Local Democracy Agency Foundation Armenia, ALDA will continue to strengthen citizens’ capacities and support inclusive democratic participation across the country.
