Armenia-Based Analyst Richard Giragosian Dies at 61 in Istanbul

ISTANBUL — Richard Giragosian, a prominent regional analyst and director of the Regional Studies Center (RSC), an independent think tank based in Armenia, has died in Istanbul at the age of 61, according to Agos Weekly.

Giragosian had traveled to Istanbul last week to attend a meeting when he became ill and was hospitalized. According to Agos, he suffered a brain hemorrhage and was treated at Okmeydanı Prof. Dr. Cemil Taşçıoğlu Hospital, where he remained in intensive care. He died on the evening of September 19.

A well-known analyst on political and security developments in Armenia and the wider South Caucasus, Giragosian was frequently sought for his views on regional affairs. He also occasionally contributed articles to Agos. News of his death prompted expressions of grief from colleagues and friends in Armenia, Turkey and the broader international policy community.

Nigar Göksel, Turkey Director of the International Crisis Group, recalled sharing numerous panels with Giragosian over the course of more than two decades across Western Europe, Turkey, Armenia and Georgia. Despite disagreements on various issues involving Turkey, Armenia and Azerbaijan, she said their discussions were grounded in mutual understanding and an expectation that their dialogue would continue.

Göksel described Giragosian’s death in Istanbul as leaving a significant void in the professional community they had shared for more than 20 years. In her tribute, she recalled a phrase Giragosian frequently used to conclude panel discussions: “The conclusion we have reached is that there is no conclusion.”

Emilio Cricchio of BBC Radio, who previously served in Armenia, also paid tribute to Giragosian, describing him as a dedicated analyst who worked tirelessly to promote peace in the region. He also remembered Giragosian for his kindness and sense of humor.

Born on January 8, 1965, in Providence, Rhode Island, Giragosian built a career focused on international relations, security and political developments in Armenia and the South Caucasus.

During his career, he served as a consultant to the Asian Development Bank, the European Union Delegation to Armenia, the French Ministry of Defense, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), and the U.S. Department of State.

His analyses appeared in publications and organizations including the European Council on Foreign Relations, Le Monde, The Moscow Times and Turkish Policy Quarterly.

Giragosian moved to Armenia in 2006 and most recently served as director of the Regional Studies Center, where his work focused on regional security, foreign policy and political developments affecting Armenia and its neighbors.

A funeral ceremony for Giragosian is expected to be held in Armenia.