On November 10 in the framework of the reception dedicated to Self-Governance Day in Armenia the traditional “Best Community 2019” award was held. Since 2006 the award has been organised with the initiative of the Union of Communities of Armenia and Ministry of Territorial Administration and  Infrastructure of the Republic of Armenia.

The President of the Union of Communities of Armenia Emin Yeritsyan sent a congratulatory message dedicated to Self-Governance Day in Armenia. Mr Yeritsyan stated: “Today the local authorities have a great deal of responsibility, but with insufficient resources to implement them. More than 90% of the taxes paid by our residents are owned by the central government, and only about 8% are owned by the communities. Thus the resources and powers are unequally distributed between the central and the local governments. Without the resources and powers local authorities won’t be able to fulfill their mission to provide quality services and create a quality human life environment”.

The Head of Department of Local Self-Government Policy of the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure of the Republic of Armenia Ashot Giloyan congratulated the communities on the occasion of the 23rd Anniversary of Self-Governance Day in Armenia. He stated: “This is our professional holiday. You are at the forefront of local democracy and you need to gain more achievements over the years. The 23rd anniversary is enough to create a base for local self-government".

The award was accompanied by dance and music performances of cultural groups from different communities. Then the winners of “Best Community Award 2019” were announced.

“Best Community Award 2019” nomination: the winners are Goris and Akunq.

“Well Organized and Comfortable Community 2019” nomination: the winners are Tashir and Tegh.

“Clean Community 2019” nomination: the winner is Talin.

“Cultural Community 2019”: the winners are Kapan and Akhuryan.

“Smart and Innovative City of the Year”: the winner is Ejmiatsin.

“Significant Progress for the Year 2019” for all communities nomination: the winner is Vanadzor.

“Significant Progress for the Year 2019” for united communities: the winners are Lori Berd and Sisian.

“The Business structure of the Year” nomination: the winner is Sevan.

“The Initiative of the Year” nomination: the winner is Sayat Nova.