Any Speech of Hatred or Calls for Violence are Unacceptable: Ombudsman on the Transgender Controversy in the National Assembly

Any speech of hatred, threats, or calls for violence are unacceptable. This phenomenon is especially noticeable on social media. Hatred, threats, or calls for violence are not protected under the guarantees of freedom of speech.

This was stated by Human Rights Defender Arman Tatoyan in response to a request from Tert.am, addressing the uproar following transgender Lilith Martirosyan’s speech in the National Assembly, as well as discussions surrounding the conduct of the head of the National Assembly’s Human Rights Committee, Naira Zohrabyan, and her resignation from the committee chair position.

The Ombudsman’s response is presented below.

“The Constitution and laws of Armenia guarantee the equality of all individuals before the law and the protection of all citizens from any form of violence or its threats. Accordingly, the competent authorities of the state bear the responsibility for guaranteeing the rights of every member of society, including ensuring the physical and mental inviolability of each individual.

The staff of the Human Rights Defender’s office has been in contact with the Police immediately following the events that occurred after the discussions held in the parliament on April 5. The Police have taken the necessary steps, including initiating proceedings regarding threats and calls for violence, as well as measures to ensure the personal safety of the citizen.

The work of the permanent committee for the protection of human rights and public issues of the National Assembly holds significant importance. An effective collaboration has been established with the committee chair, Naira Zohrabyan, aimed at strengthening the protection of human rights in the country. Together with the committee, important issues concerning human rights have already been discussed (the conditions in penitentiary institutions, psychiatric facilities, etc.). The committee’s activities are of critical importance for the country, as its establishment has emphasized the state’s commitment to protecting human rights.

The Human Rights Defender will continue its effective work with both the permanent committee on human rights and public issues of the National Assembly and other committees of the parliament.

In addition to the parliament, the collaboration of the Human Rights Defender will also continue with the Government of Armenia.

The Defender will provide full support to the government’s efforts and programs aimed at improving the country’s human rights protection system,” the statement said.