EU-funded ‘Mayors for Economic Growth’ initiative launches its third phase in Yerevan, Armenia
On 8 October, the European Union’s flagship initiative to support local development, Mayors for Economic Growth (M4EG), implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), marked the official launch of its third phase at an event in Armenia. The kickoff event gathered representatives from the Government of Armenia, the EU, the UNDP, municipalities, and civil society organisations.
The third phase of M4EG builds on earlier achievements while introducing a specific focus on a mission-oriented approach to local development. Instead of supporting short-term and isolated projects, municipalities will be working on sets of coordinated initiatives.
“The EU remains committed to supporting Armenian municipalities in becoming engines of sustainable and inclusive growth, particularly through advancing the green transition and fostering innovation at the local level,” said Frank Hess, Head of Co-operation of the EU Delegation to Armenia.
“Strengthening the role of our municipalities is central to Armenia’s development agenda. Through this initiative with the EU and UNDP support, we are giving the communities the tools to shape sustainable and resilient futures for their citizens,” said Avetik Darbinyan, Deputy Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure.
In August 2025, ten municipalities joined the programme across the Eastern Partnership countries. In Armenia, these were Aparan, Goris, Noyemberyan.
The mission-oriented economy approach focuses on solving specific societal challenges through targeted, strategic interventions. It involves setting clear, ambitious goals (“missions”) that require innovation and coordination across various sectors and actors. This approach aims to drive economic growth by addressing complex problems, creating interconnected solutions that benefit society as a whole.
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