After five years of implementing real changes, we are finally witnessing the active actions of the Anti-Corruption Committee in the real estate market, and these actions are being discussed in newly-formed Anti-Corruption Courts. Today, on December 6th, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan highlighted this progress during a government session. Pashinyan noted that three new Anti-Corruption Courts have been established with higher salaries for judges since the revolution. The Prime Minister also mentioned that they are considering aligning the salary system with European standards, as part of the government’s efforts to ensure the effective functioning of the courts.

Pashinyan emphasized that these steps are aimed at providing effective functioning of the courts. He revealed that since 2018, 60 new positions have been added to the judiciary in Armenia, along with other implemented changes. These changes have resulted in the successful recovery of penalties imposed on corrupt officials, amounting up to 5 million drams, without the need for lengthy court proceedings. The age of retirement for judges will also be reduced to minimize time spent on technical and obvious issues, allowing courts to focus on fair justice and effective judicial proceedings.

In addition, there are plans to free the courts from frivolous claims, clear the backlog of minor cases, and improve transparency in administrative and judicial administration through the use of telephone and internet communications. Pashinyan stated that these steps will enable the courts to devote less time to technical work related to technology and secret activities, and instead prioritize the work of justice and fair legal proceedings. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that citizens of the Republic of Armenia have confidence in the state institutions and public institutions to restore justice and make this possibility an everyday reality.

These recent developments in Armenia demonstrate a significant commitment to combating corruption and improving the functioning of the judicial system. The establishment of Anti-Corruption Courts, along with the implementation of various reforms, is a crucial step towards ensuring transparency, fairness, and effectiveness in the Armenian justice system. As the government continues to work towards aligning with European standards and adopting innovative approaches, it is hopeful that Armenia will witness further progress in the fight against corruption and the pursuit of justice.