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On March 14, the graduates of the Katarine Women’s Political Leadership Programme visited the National Assembly. The RA NA Vice President Hakob Arshakyan met with them and talked about the issues of women’s involvement in social and political life. The deputies of the Civil Contract Faction Arusyak Julhakyan, Sona Ghazaryan, Tsovinar Vardanyan, Alkhas Ghazaryan and Mariam Poghosyan attended the meeting.

Welcoming the guests, the RA NA Vice President considered the fact that the meeting takes place within the framework of the Women’s Month. Referring to the effectiveness of the Katarine Women's Political Leadership programme, Hakob Arshakyan expressed conviction that the initiative brings together proactive, experienced and strong women in various fields to develop the necessary skills for a successful political career and leadership. In this context, he underscored the participation of the women from the regions in the programme.

The NA Vice President spoke about the crucial role of women in the development of an individual and added that women can be the best in terms of leadership and their role should not be underestimated. According to Hakob Arshakyan, more opportunities for women's leadership should be created.

During the Q&A session, the MPs and the participants of the discussion touched upon the representation of women in political life, the realization of women's rights in a number of fields. Women’s participation in decision-making processes has become important, especially at the local level. It was noted that the current quota allows women with potential to be involved, but there are many stereotypes in the communities. The necessity for mechanisms to improve women's participation in decision-making bodies was underlined. Programmes promoting women's employment were discussed.

The Katarine Women’s Political Leadership Programme is inspired by the character of Katarine Zalyan-Manukyan, who was one of the first Armenian women deputies in 1919. The programme is implemented by the National Democratic Institute (NDI) with USAID funding.

At the end of the meeting, the guests toured the NA building, visited the session hall, museum and library.