Noncombat Deaths Expose Crisis in Armenian Military

Noncombat deaths among Armenian service members have reached critical levels, with systemic failures in military infrastructure and psychological support contributing to preventable casualties.

According to a Helsinki Citizens' Assembly report, 76 service members died in Armenia and Artsakh armed forces in 2021, with causes including murders, suicides, accidents, and health issues. Human rights activists report that noncombat deaths accounted for 90% of Armenian military fatalities in 2024.

Military experts cite personnel shortages, an ineffective psychological support system, and a lack of trained military psychologists as primary factors. The situation is further complicated by foreign recruitment efforts, with Russia and Ukraine actively seeking Armenian volunteers for the war in Ukraine.

Civil society organizations have called on the state to strengthen safeguards for service members' safety, dignity, and mental health, noting that violence remains systemic and inadequately prevented.