The political debate that should have taken place over whether and how Armenia’s delegation to the Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly can and should interact with the delegations of Azerbaijan and Turkey has not taken place. Instead, we have been witness to inappropriate – that’s a polite way of saying vulgar and insulting – assessments of the Armenian parliamentarian involved.

One wonders if a male parliamentarian had sought the support of Turkish and Azerbaijani parliamentarians on a resolution regarding Armenia’s domestic issues,  how would the political elite have reacted? Parliamentarian Zaruhi Postanjian is a woman, a member of the Zharangutyun (Heritage) party and a vocal, committed human rights advocate. Her political steps can be debated. Her personal life, patriotism and gender ought not.

It is at our peril that Armenia avoids political debate, sidesteps real discussion about the ever-tightening political situation in our region, especially vis-à-vis Armenia’s neighbors.  Offending those whose domestic policies are different, drawing fezzes on the heads of those whose policies towards our neighbors is perceived as too tolerant -- all this means foregoing political consensus in favor of imposed policy. There are social implications, too. Striking at the dignity of half of Armenia's population means women and girls will be even less willing and prepared to help build a country.

All because we refuse to get involved in the hard work of debating policy and articulating our vision of our future.