A Platform for Dialogue Among Stakeholders in Goris Community

As part of the “Locally-led Action for Development of the Goris Community” project, Goris Press Club organized a discussion in Jermuk on the topic “The Prospects of Participatory Development of the Goris Community: Public and Private Sector Cooperation.” The event brought together representatives from Syunik regional and Goris community authorities, civil society organizations, and the business sector.

The discussion focused on existing achievements in collaboration across these sectors and explored new opportunities and formats for mobilizing resources, particularly in times of crisis.

Representatives from the business sector emphasized the significance of such platforms, which provide opportunities to address community challenges with solutions beneficial to businesses, society, and the state. They expressed readiness to actively engage in the dialogue, contributing to enhanced social responsibility and sustainable development.

Key topics included:

• Establishing traditions of cooperation between civil society and the business sector.
• Ensuring inclusiveness in employment practices within businesses.
• Strengthening information exchange among local governments, the private sector, and civil society, especially for developing joint action plans during crises.
• Introducing cultural patronage to support the cultural sector.

Participants also addressed the importance of safeguarding public interests in the business sector, developing strategies for businesses to respond to emergencies, and other pressing issues. It was suggested to map the challenges of various sectors, aligning them with national priorities while addressing local specificities.

The workshop also provided an opportunity to learn from the experience of the Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE). CIPE representative Armine Datvian presented the organization’s role in supporting, activating, and advocating for business interests.

Artush Yeghiazaryan, founder of the “Herbs and Honey” teahouse, shared his journey from a startup idea to an established, profitable business. He detailed the challenges and successes along the way, emphasizing the need to set ambitious goals and maintain a clear vision for growth.

The discussion was moderated by expert Haykuhi Gevorgyan, who summarized the results of the participants’ group work conducted in the World Café format. She presented short-term, medium-term, and long-term recommendations for target sectors in community development, highlighting that continued dialogue is essential for their effective implementation.