Updates

The Armenian Parliament adopted a new Law on Youth Policy, a pivotal step towards empowering young people and recognising them as key players in shaping the future of the country.

The draft of the Law on Initiating the Process of Armenia’s Accession to the European Union was proposed by the ‘Euroqve’ Initiative Group, showing the power of citizens’ constitutional right to legislative initiative.

Armenia takes important step with a new body dedicated to strengthening participatory governance and supporting civil society development.

In response to feedback from the public and CSOs, the Ministry froze its proposal of legal amendments to enlarge the scope of police surveillance, citing the need for further dialogue to ensure public consensus on safety measures.

Armenia’s new legislative package is expected to ease the process of organising assemblies and address the practical issues related to policing.

CSOs welcome the draft, which aims to set up a new anti-discrimination body, but they highlight legislative gaps, including the need for improved legal protection of LGBTQIA+ persons.

Disproportionate use of force has been reported during recent protests, calling for the resignation of the Prime Minister. CSOs demand an independent investigation of human rights violations.

CSOs outline some concerns during public consultation, and expect that the bill on access to public information will be further improved.

Government agreed to revise the law based on CSO contributions, which highlighted the law would be a step backwards in access to information.

Grant funding being the main source of income for most CSOs, they are concerned that such interpretation may pose risks for their sustainability and independence.

Commitments include creating a new government unit to promote participatory governance, as per CSO Meter recommendations.

The Action Plan 2023-2025 for the National Strategy on Human Rights Protection includes measures in support of civil society environment.