On June 4, 2024, the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) issued a ruling in favor of Arman Tatoyan, the Human Rights Defender of Armenia. The ECHR stated that Armenia violated the material and procedural norms of Article 2 of the Vienna Convention. In response to this ruling, Tatoyan has been granted the right to receive compensation amounting to 30,000 euros.

In 2011, Tigran Tatoyan joined the obligatory military service. Tragically, on February 29, 2012, he lost his life during a military operation. On the same day, the military prosecutor ordered the payment of 30,000 euros to Tatoyan’s representative, without taking into consideration the fact that Tatoyan was not involved in non-military service and was part of the civilian component of the military operation.

During the military operation, Tatoyan assumed his position in the field. The military personnel, as well as a serviceman named Sergey E.S., publicly announced Tatoyan’s position. Previously, Sergey E.S. had threatened Tatoyan and made false statements about his whereabouts. Furthermore, Deputy High Lieutenant General H.H. used physical force against Tatoyan, striking him in the head. Tatoyan was then taken to a military unit, where he experienced further physical violence due to the ongoing conflict.

In light of these recent events, H.H. stated that his actions were a precautionary measure to prevent the misuse of power among individuals who are officially part of their authority but fail to carry out their duties properly. Safeguarding authority while exercising power is a crucial responsibility during one’s official duties. Any violation of this obligation necessitates internal investigations, identification of culprits, and the implementation of disciplinary and legal measures. Tigran Tatoyan’s complaint to MIHU serves as evidence of his efforts to protect his rights in the face of abuse of power.