In Memoriam of Richard GIRAGOSIAN

20.09.2026. Caucasian Journal is deeply saddened by the passing of Richard GIRAGOSIAN, Founding Director of the Regional Studies Center (RSC) in Yerevan and a long-standing colleague, partner, and friend of our journal.
Richard died suddenly in Istanbul on 19 September, at the age of 61, while travelling for a professional meeting and in the midst of his active work as an analyst and researcher. His passing is all the more difficult to comprehend because he remained deeply engaged in the issues and professional dialogue to which he had devoted so much of his life.
Richard was one of the most recognisable independent analysts of the South Caucasus. For more than three decades, he worked on international security, regional geopolitics, Armenia’s foreign and security policy, conflict resolution, and the evolving relationships between the South Caucasus and the wider international community.
After moving to Armenia in 2006, Richard worked with and advised a wide range of international institutions, including the European Union, the OSCE, the Asian Development Bank, the U.S. Departments of State and Defense, and the French Ministry of Defense. He also taught and lectured at institutions including the NATO Defense College in Rome and Yerevan State University.
For Caucasian Journal, however, Richard was much more than a prominent analyst whose work we followed. He was a valued partner and colleague with whom we had many plans for future cooperation. Our joint work with the Regional Studies Center was based on a shared belief in the importance of independent research, informed public debate, and dialogue across the South Caucasus.
His sudden passing leaves a profound loss for his family, colleagues, friends, and the wider community of researchers and analysts working on the region.
We extend our deepest condolences to Richard’s family, his colleagues at the Regional Studies Center, and all those who knew and worked with him.
We will remember Richard through the work he started, the ideas he shared, the dialogue he encouraged, and the many people he inspired. Follow the Caucasian Journal: