Edita Gzoyan: Preserving the Memory of the Armenian Genocide
Edita Gzoyan (LL.M. ’12) earned her master’s degree from the Master of Laws (LL.M.) program at AUA in 2012. With a background in law, history, and international relations, Gzoyan aimed to expand her knowledge in law and acquire a Western-style education through AUA.
“My experience at AUA was completely different from my prior education at Yerevan State University (YSU). I gained many skills, such as critical thinking, and interacted with international faculty members who provided us both knowledge and practical experience. AUA gave me a different perspective and mindset, for which I am very grateful,” notes Gzoyan.
In 2013, Gzoyan became a researcher at the Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute (AGMI), followed by a promotion to deputy scientific director in 2018. She was appointed director of the Museum-Institute in 2024. In her new role, Gzoyan oversees the development of the diverse activities held at AGMI. She believes that her AUA education provided her sufficient knowledge in the field of law to work on research, especially regarding the legal aspect of genocide.
While many people know about the Armenian Genocide Museum, very few are familiar with its other functions, including the research unit and collaborations with genocide institutions worldwide, as well as educational programs and library resources. In addition to permanent, temporary, and online exhibitions that have around 100,000 visitors annually, the Museum-Institute houses a research department where scholars work on various topics connected to the Armenian Genocide.
“Genocide studies is not a common choice for higher education in Armenia. I am grateful to AUA for offering a minor in genocide studies, as it is so important, especially today when we still witness genocide around the world,” says Gzoyan. “The Museum-Institute offers educational programs to middle schoolers and high schoolers. We have lectures and discussions with them to ensure they learn about and preserve the memory of the Armenian Genocide. In our library, we have special collections and archives of Genocide survivors, which are useful resources for anyone interested in this field.”
Gzoyan has big plans for AGMI. She aims to develop all of its activities, particularly the educational program, which has been approved by the Republic of Armenia Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports. She believes it is the main component in preserving the memory of the Armenian Genocide and preventing future genocides.