NSS Proposes Separation from State Protection Service

The National Security Service (NSS) of Armenia has put forth a draft law for public discussion on the unified platform for the publication of legal acts, proposing amendments to the Law on Ensuring the Security of Persons Subject to Special State Protection.

The draft suggests separating the State Protection Service from the NSS and making it a body accountable to the Prime Minister. According to the justification provided on the unified legal acts publication platform, the current legislative framework categorizes the State Protection Service as a department of the National Security Service. However, the State Protection Service operates as a relatively autonomous entity, as evidenced by the distinct nature and characteristics of its functions. While certain instances may require support from the National Security Service, the execution of these functions is not directly contingent on the NSS's involvement, and necessary assistance can be effectively provided through the framework of cooperation among state bodies.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister's direct involvement in the formation of the leadership of the State Protection Service reflects its certain independence (the head of the service is appointed and dismissed by the President based on the Prime Minister's proposal, while the first deputy is appointed by the Prime Minister upon the recommendation of the Director of the NSS).