Following protests and concerns raised by human rights defenders and organizations regarding the mistreatment and violation of rights of staff members at the Human Rights Defender’s Office in the Republic of Armenia, unannounced inspections were conducted at the Yerevan city’s first instance court on June 12. These inspections were carried out after the release of individuals temporarily held to ensure the safety of court personnel from acts of violence and their transportation. Representatives from MI֊MIՊ were responsible for conducting the inspections which took place in several districts of Yerevan, including Ajapnyak-1, Shengavit, Kentron, and Avan.

The inspections revealed various deficiencies in the detention facilities where the temporarily held individuals were kept. In Shengavit and Kentron districts, there was a lack of operational main power line, natural and artificial lighting, and water supply in the cells. In Avan district, the cells did not have the required number of beds and other necessary equipment. Some detainees were also found with damaged personal belongings, visible signs of physical harm, and bruises.

It is important to note that in certain cases, the duration of detention was too short to provide the necessary legal assistance to the individuals. This situation is particularly concerning as it goes against the positive obligations of the state to protect the life and health of individuals. Additionally, all inspections revealed the need for repair in the facilities. Broken furniture, including tables and chairs, and unclean premises were observed.

Reports were received regarding inappropriate behavior and treatment by transportation personnel during the transfer of detainees from the facilities to the court, particularly at the Shengavit location. Notably, in cases where the detainee is female and the transportation personnel are male, there have been incidents where inappropriate actions were committed due to the presence of empty space in the transportation truck.

This issue is not only relevant for the protection of rights but also for the proper organization of judicial activities. The detailed problems recorded at the detainee facilities can be found in the attached inspection report. It is important to consider these issues in a broader context, taking into account the positive obligations of the state and its commitment to protecting the rights of individuals in detention.

The results of the inspections will be presented to the relevant state authorities, accompanied by recommendations for necessary action.