Armenia Launches Law on Chemical Substances Drafting Initiative under Sweden-funded Green Agenda for Armenia Project
The Ministry of Environment of Armenia, in collaboration with the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) and the American University of Armenia (AUA) Acopian Center for the Environment, launched a new initiative to draft Armenia's first Law on Chemical Substances. Funded by the Swedish International Development Agency (Sida), the support to develop the law is being provided as part of the Green Agenda Armenia project of SEI and the AUA Acopian Center.
The development of the new law - with important input to be provided by the Swedish Chemicals Agency (KEMI) - will mark a critical step forward in aligning Armenia’s environmental legislation with European Union (EU) standards, strengthening public health and environmental protection, and fulfilling obligations under the EU-Armenia Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and international conventions.
The launch follows an official request from the Ministry of Environment of Armenia to the Green Agenda Armenia project to provide technical support in this vital area. The intervention is a cornerstone of project’s broader objectives to catalyze green policy reforms, build government capacity, and spur investment and innovation for a sustainable, green economy.
Cristina Coloman, Green Agenda Project Lead at SEI, emphasized the technical partnership: “We are honored to support Armenia in this ambitious endeavor. Our international and national experts will work hand-in-hand with Armenian institutions to draft effective, context-specific legislation that meets European best practices while supporting local needs and realities.”
The Law on Chemical Substances initiative comes at a pivotal moment. By adopting robust chemical management legislation, Armenia sets a foundation for future economic modernization and potential deeper EU integration.
Liana Papakhchyan, Head of Hazardous Substances and Waste Policy Department at Ministry of Environment underscored the urgency and relevance of this legislative process. “Today, chemical substances are widely used across various sectors of our economy, from agriculture to industry. However, their improper or unregulated use can have serious consequences for both human health and the environment. Therefore, it is essential to establish a clear, comprehensive, and legally grounded system for the management of these substances. This initiative is a reflection of political will, responsibility, and a vision for the future. It stands as yet another testament to Armenia’s commitment to becoming a safer, more stable country that adheres to international standards,” she added.
“The Swedish Chemicals Agency has extensive experience from working together with countries to assist in EU-approximation of the legislation in the field of chemicals. We are looking forward to working together with the team to support the strengthening of preventive chemicals control in Armenia in line with EU requirements”, said Linn Persson, Head of the International Unit at the Swedish Chemicals Agency.
“This project represents not just a legal milestone, but a commitment to an inclusive, consultative approach that brings together industry, civil society, and government,” noted Alen Amirkhanian, the Green Agenda Armenia Lead and the Director of the AUA Acopian Center. “The drafting process of the Law on Chemical Substances will include broad stakeholder consultations, capacity-building workshops, and technical reviews to ensure both international alignment and local relevance.”
About the Green Agenda for Armenia, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine
Green Agenda Armenia is part of the larger regional Green Agenda for Armenia, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine project run by SEI. The Green Agenda project unites government actors and expert partners from Armenia, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine to accelerate green transitions. By supporting policy reform, innovation uptake, capacity building, and investment, the project advances greener economies and resilient societies. Visit green-agenda.org
About Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI)
SEI is an international non-profit research and policy organization that works to drive environmental and developmental change for a sustainable future. Visit sei.org
About the AUA Acopian Center for the Environment
The American University of Armenia (AUA) Acopian Center for the Environment promotes the protection and restoration of the natural environment through research, education, and community outreach. Visit ace.aua.am
Media Contact: Ilona Kazaryan, Senior Communications and Impact Officer, SEI, +46 722 19 96 43, [email protected]
