Tatoyan on Discussions Surrounding the Pardon Process of Mher Yenokyan

The Commissioner for Human Rights' studies reveal that insults and hate speech on social networks have become widespread. It is concerning that this occurs in an environment where professional discussions and official legal procedures are ignored, and issues are predominantly addressed from an emotional standpoint.

Considering the public response to the matter, the Human Rights Defender finds it necessary to emphasize:

It is unacceptable when discussions are accompanied by insults toward the issue at hand, including individuals serving sentences for crimes, their spouses, and others expressing opinions on the matter, along with ongoing intrusions into their private and family lives.

The observation has also documented instances of insults directed at the victims’ successors, as well as intrusions into their private and family lives and instances of double victimization.

Of course, the public free discussion of any issue is an important democratic achievement. However, any such discussion must take place in an atmosphere of respect for the rights and freedoms of others and solidarity.

Human dignity is inviolable and constitutes the irreplaceable foundation of everyone’s rights and freedoms. It should be noted that in a specific situation, discussions regarding the pardon petition are conducted as part of a legal process. This implies adhering to the rules of that process and necessary efforts directed towards public awareness of this process.

It is evident that the state has not adequately worked to inform the public about the essence of the pardon institution and the pardon process.

The Human Rights Defender has consistently documented in reports and communications in recent years that for years, the Armenian penal system has been punitive in nature. Despite the state’s positive obligations, efforts aimed at the re-socialization of convicted individuals have been almost non-existent, and restorative programs have not been implemented. There has been a lack of necessary informational outreach to the public. The result of all this has been a vigorous public response to penal policy, particularly regarding the release from punishment, which has reached the level of hate speech in specific situations.

In the implementation of criminal policy in the country and the application of the institutions for release from punishment, the right of the crime victim to be heard and express their opinion should also not be overlooked. It is the state's responsibility to ensure their support and other rights. Therefore, when developing and implementing legal reform policies, these issues should also be taken into account.

The role of media and journalists is also extremely important in this matter. Thus, the Human Rights Defender urges all media outlets and journalists to remove comments containing insults or hate speech, regardless of whether they are made by seemingly fake or real users.