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Environmental lawyer Nazeli Vardanyan has defended the ongoing strike organized by employees of the Zangezur Copper-Molybdenum Combine (ZCMC), claiming that their demands for a pay rise and better working conditions are justified.

The ZCMC workers began the strike on 31 January. Their representatives and senior ZCMC executives failed to reach an agreement during the talks last week.

"Workers have the right to make any demands at any time regarding their wages, working conditions or safety. They have the right to go on strike," Vardanyan said in an interview with Panorama.am on Monday.

She noted that the procedure for declaring a strike is prescribed by the Labor Code. If workers are on strike declared in accordance with the law, they cannot be dismissed during that period, as stipulated by the Labor Code.

Vardanyan argued that worker protests in the mining sector indicate that mining cannot be considered a priority industry in Armenia.

"It is often claimed that mining is the most profitable sector, generating significant state revenue and creating jobs. Yet, we see workers protesting – not just at this mine, but across the entire industry. Wages remain disproportionately low given the working conditions, and employees are voicing their demands," she said.

The lawyer also emphasized the government's responsibility given its 21% stake in the ZCMC, stating that it is accountable for ensuring proper working conditions for all employees, especially those in such demanding jobs.

"The government holds a stake in the company and I believe it must respond. Yet, it has remained silent to date," she added.