Plagiarism Will Not Cost Alexander Azaryan His Title, Says Gogyann

The High Qualification Committee has uncovered over 15 pages of text in the thesis of one of the lawyers that is duplicated in two other theses, one of which was defended earlier. This was stated today by the head of the HQC, Smbat Gogyann, in response to reporters' questions, without naming the individual responsible for the plagiarism.

According to previous media reports, this pertains to the thesis of Judge Alexander Azaryan; however, Gogyann refused to confirm the author’s name. The overlaps were found in the works of Judge Vazgen Rshduni and Tigran Nahapetyan. Azaryan's thesis defense took place in 2005.

Gogyann, however, stated that Azaryan will not lose his title, as there is no mechanism for such a punishment. He mentioned that he will initiate a process to revoke titles from those who have committed plagiarism and other violations in the past.

Regarding the examination of all theses, Gogyann said they are authorized to investigate plagiarism in any work if a complaint is received from any citizen. When asked why officials seek to obtain academic titles, Gogyann replied:

“I think there is a psychological element when there comes a stagnation in your life; you start to elevate yourself. After reaching a certain point, you don’t want to fall behind anyone, and for some, obtaining an academic degree becomes another phase of self-validation—if they have it, why shouldn't I have it? This applies to former authorities, possibly current ones, and those who will come afterward,” said Gogyann.