Azatutyun

Azatutyun is the Armenian word for freedom or liberty (Азатութիւն in Armenian script). The term is widely used in Armenian language to denote political and civil liberties, while also appearing in the names of media outlets, organizations, and slogans that emphasize independence and democratic values.

A notable use of the term is as the name of the Armenian service of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL). In Armenian its service is commonly referred to as Azatutyun, reflecting its mission to provide independent news and analysis. The service also appears in English-language branding as Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty-Armenia. Beyond a media brand, the word Azatutyun appears in broader cultural and political discourse as a value associated with free expression, accountability, and democratic governance.

Azatutyun (RFE/RL Armenian Service) provides independent news and analysis in Armenian, with coverage of Armenia, Artsakh, and the Armenian diaspora. It publishes news online, radio reports, and multimedia content in Eastern Armenian and, less commonly, Western Armenian. It is funded by the United States government through grants to RFE/RL but maintains editorial independence. Its described aim is to support democratic development, human rights, and transparent governance by delivering reliable information about politics, society, and regional affairs.

History and context: The Armenian bureau of RFE/RL was established in the early 1990s during the post-Soviet transition to provide independent journalism. Over time, Azatutyun expanded to online platforms, social media, and regional programming, becoming a reference source for Armenian-language news and analysis, including coverage of major political events in Armenia and the wider region.

Criticism and challenges: As a foreign-funded media outlet, Azatutyun is sometimes cited in debates about press freedom and media independence in Armenia and neighboring areas; it seeks to maintain impartial reporting and to provide coverage that may be critical of various political actors.