The Silicon Mountains Lori Forum & Expo 2025, held on 15 May in Vanadzor, served as a platform for discussion on current challenges and possible responses to the growing number of cyber threats. The event took place as Armenia steps up its efforts to strengthen its digital resilience and structure its response at the national level. One of the major sessions focused on cybersecurity and data protection. The panel on Cybersecurity & Data Protection included John Gallagher, UK Ambassador to Armenia, Ivan Straniero, Regional Director of NETSCOUT, Komitas Stepanyan, Director of IT and Cybersecurity at the Central Bank of Armenia, Ralph Yirikian, CEO of Ucom, and Kieran Cassidy, Director of Threat and Risk Assessment at BAE Systems UK. Topics discussed included critical infrastructure resilience, evolving cyber threats, and training for professionals in the sector. In this context, the cybersecurity training courses organised by the Armenia Peace Initiative (API) are a concrete way for developing local skills.
During a panel discussion on cybersecurity and data protection, Armenian and international experts discussed current challenges in digital security. Representatives from the Central Bank of Armenia, NETSCOUT, BAE Systems UK, Ucom and the British Embassy agreed that, despite some progress, Armenia remains vulnerable, particularly due to the regional situation.
The country has improved its score on the Global Cybersecurity Index, reaching 53.81 out of 100. This ranking, although improving, still positions Armenia in the category of “developing” countries. Critical infrastructure, such as energy networks and public institutions, are now the main targets of cyberattacks. The banking sector is a secondary target.
Speakers emphasised the need for a cultural shift: we must now assume that attacks are inevitable. The response must involve strengthening systems, prevention, international cooperation and, above all, training.
It is precisely with this in mind that the Armenia Peace Initiative (API) has developed its cyber security training programme*. In partnership with the French University in Armenia (UFAR) and the Enterprise Incubator Foundation (EIF), API offers theoretical and, above all, practical sessions for professionals in sensitive sectors (banking, telecommunications, public services, ministries) and IT students.
The training courses are organised twice a year, in the spring and autumn of the academic year. They are based on a structured 90-hour programme, including modules on networks, system security, virtualisation, forensic analysis and penetration testing. The courses are taught by two French experts and focus on practical skills through simulated environments and realistic case studies.
Additionally, API has established an introductory cybersecurity module for vulnerable groups, including women, displaced persons, and veterans. These groups receive digital technology training from the French association Relq. The aim is to broaden access to these essential skills and promote professional integration.
API’s approach aims to strengthen the local cybersecurity skills pool in the long term. It responds to a concrete need identified by forum participants: building national capacities to address transnational threats. In the medium term, these training courses will help build a more resilient Armenian ecosystem capable of protecting its digital infrastructure and responding effectively to crises.
*Action funded by