This Law's Adoption Can Be Considered a Historical Event
The National Assembly has fully adopted the package of amendments to the "Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities" and related laws. This can be considered a historical event, as the Government of the Republic of Armenia had committed to this obligation back in 2010 by ratifying the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Former Minister of Labor and Social Affairs, Zaruhy Batoyan, made a post on her Facebook page about this. She stated, "I could write extensively about the journey I have taken with my friends advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities since attending the signing ceremony of the Convention, but that is not important at this moment. I would only like to mention that the law was developed and adopted in accordance with the principles and norms recognized by international law thanks to political will and consistent efforts because the government and the National Assembly prioritized and considered it essential."
"Of course, this is only the beginning of changes, after which a new phase should begin to ensure the implementation of the law, the execution of programs, and a new level of protection and inclusion of the rights of persons with disabilities. The law itself does not perform miracles, but it creates the legal foundations and opportunities for a dignified and independent life, which must be ensured by the government, local self-government bodies, and all responsible parties. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate persons with disabilities and their organizations and express gratitude to those who worked on the project, especially Anna Hakobyan from the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs and my assistant Mushegh Hovsepian. Special thanks to my colleagues in the National Assembly for discussing and adopting the project," Batoyan wrote.