The Government of Armenia has recently made significant changes to the country’s justice system, according to the “Nations in Transit 2024” annual report by Freedom House. These changes include the government’s complete control over state-run radio and television broadcasting, social networks, and the internet. Although the government claims that these changes were made in consultation with the judiciary, the report suggests that the real reason behind them is the new military administration of national security and defense, known as the “Comprehensive System of National Security and Defense of the Republic of Armenia.” Additionally, the report highlights concerns regarding the accessibility of public information related to environmental protection.

Freedom House’s report emphasizes that these restrictions on freedom of speech, organization, and access to information have faced widespread criticism from human rights organizations. Apart from the daily limitations imposed by these changes, observers have expressed concerns over the lack of involvement from relevant scientific community organizations. The report specifically mentions that this procedure hinders cooperation between non-governmental organizations (NGOs), such as the Human Rights Association and Armenia, and the Armenian Association of Environmental and Practical Bodies, as outlined in the Memorandum of Cooperation between them in 2022.