Human Rights Law at Armenia
Human Rights Law in Armenia is shaped by its Constitution, international obligations, and domestic legislation. Here’s a concise overview of the key elements:
1. Constitutional Framework
The Constitution of Armenia (last amended in 2015) guarantees fundamental human rights and freedoms. Key provisions include:
Article 3: Human dignity is the highest value.
Articles 14–47: Cover civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights (e.g., right to life, freedom of expression, fair trial, privacy, and equality before the law).
2. International Obligations
Armenia is a party to major international human rights treaties, including:
European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) – Armenia is under the jurisdiction of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR).
UN treaties like the ICCPR, ICESCR, CEDAW, CAT, and CRC.
Optional protocols, enabling individual complaints to UN bodies.
3. Domestic Legal Protections
Key institutions and laws:
Ombudsman (Human Rights Defender of Armenia): Independent body addressing human rights complaints.
Criminal Code & Civil Code: Contain protections against discrimination, torture, hate crimes, etc.
Laws on NGOs, Freedom of Assembly, Media, and Religious Freedom: Regulate the exercise of civil rights.
4. Challenges and Concerns
While Armenia has made progress, human rights challenges persist, such as:
Judicial independence concerns.
Police misconduct and excessive use of force.
Freedom of assembly and press freedom under pressure.
Discrimination against minorities, including LGBTQ+ individuals.
Human rights issues related to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
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