“Editor Arrested and Journalists Attacked: Calls for Justice and Freedom of Speech in Armenia Intensify”
Authorities arrest editor and operator of Oragir.News website, label journalist Ani Nerkararyan as traitor. Tavush residents show support, close Yerevan-Tbilisi road in peaceful protest. Journalists, civil society representatives face violence. Demand thorough investigation of all violations, protection of human rights, freedom of speech.
“Journalists Unite in Tel Aviv Square, Demand Elections and Accountability”
Journalists in Tel Aviv’s People’s Square express frustration with management and demand elections and accountability. Organized by the “Changes Movement,” the protest calls for release of imprisoned journalists and change in Israel’s leadership. Streets closed to highlight journalists’ challenges.
Unity of Armenian Artists Condemns Attack on Journalists Covering Demarcation Protests
The Unity of Armenian Artists announces protests against the demarcation process. Journalists attacked and forced into becoming informants. Authorities suppress protests through force. Demand investigation and respect for human rights. Don’t ignore organizations advocating for citizens’ rights.
“Denied Justice: Workers’ Protest in Tsavush Blocked, Authorities Resort to Force”
Workers denied permission to protest in Tsavush by Ministry of Justice; authorities use force to take participants to Department of Justice.
“Armenia hailed for allowing unrestricted operation of human rights organizations by international reports”
National and international human rights organizations have operated freely in Armenia since 2023, monitoring the human rights situation. However, the government did not consider the views of civil society groups when developing policies.
“National Union Exposes Horrifying Conditions at Mental Health Center: Urgent Call for Action to Protect Human Rights”
Unauthorized visit to Mental Health Center reveals numerous violations such as poor living conditions, conflicts among staff, and inadequate patient care. Urgent action needed to protect human rights in mental health care. Monitoring and awareness raising by Defender of Human Rights ongoing.
Advocate for Human Rights Stresses the Importance of Critical Thinking in Education During School No. 3 Meeting
Learn the importance of education in developing critical thinking and protecting human rights. Anahit Manasyan, the human rights advocate, discusses the role of education in combating extremism and fostering universal values. She also addresses the responsibilities of advocates, justice principles, and cooperation with various organizations. Students gain insights into their rights, displaced persons’ rights, military personnel’s rights, and the work of the Defender’s Office. The meeting concludes with an emphasis on the significance of discussing human rights with young people to enhance their awareness and education.
Yerevan Inclusion in US Human Rights Report Highlights Repression and Violence Following Azerbaijan’s Aggression
The US Department of State highlights human rights abuses in Yerevan following Azerbaijan’s military action in Artsakh. Protesters faced repression, detention, and abuse. Authorities used tear gas and rubber bullets. Criminal cases were initiated against 58 individuals. Violence resulted in injuries to civilians and law enforcement officers. Opposition figures used closed-off central square for discussions on national security. Activists from the “Zang” movement staged a demonstration.
“French Prime Minister Commits to Support Armenia: ‘Hope for a Peaceful Future Prevails’,”
French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal reiterates his backing for commemorating the Armenian Genocide of 1915. In a heartfelt letter, he expresses hope for Armenia’s future and emphasizes the importance of democracy, human rights, and freedom. Attal acknowledges the country’s historica struggles, sacrifices, and wars, but insists on never being defeated.
“Defender of Human Rights Challenges Taxation Amendments, Calls for Comprehensive Reconsideration and Public Involvement”
The Ministry of Justice has presented the decision of the Defender of Human Rights on tax amendments. Proposed changes include exempting legal service NGOs from paying state duty. The draft also suggests increasing taxes for tax inspectors providing legal services. The Defender of Human Rights has appealed to the President of the Court of Cassation, expressing concerns about the draft’s impact on the rights of the defender and principles of the legal profession. The Defender emphasizes the importance of inclusive discussions and public participation in decision-making processes related to the draft law. The Defender suggests that the state should consider public proposals and initiatives to gain public support and ensure comprehensive evaluation of the proposed changes.