Arman Tatoyan on the Delimitation and Demarcation of the State Borders of Armenia

It is not possible to discuss issues related to the state borders of Armenia solely from a political and military perspective, especially given the consequences of the war and the policy of Azerbaijani hostility. This was written by the Human Rights Defender Arman Tatoyan.

The government is obliged to base discussions on the delimitation and demarcation of borders on the rights of Armenian residents and, in general, human rights.

The current approach of the government is extremely dangerous, particularly in the long term, including in relation to the proposed mechanism of international observers. Serious issues have arisen regarding the protection of the rights of the government's own citizens, especially the border population, and the fulfillment of positive obligations to ensure their safe and normal lives.

Due to the current approaches of the government, certain state bodies are failing to perform their functions.

Along all border areas with Azerbaijan, it is essential to first establish a security zone, which will allow for the restoration of the rights of RA residents, ensuring their normal life and security, and other vital rights before proceeding to delimitation and demarcation.

Delimitation and demarcation can take decades or more, and the rights of RA residents cannot remain violated for decades, while their lives and security are seriously endangered.

There is an international demand that the delimitation and demarcation are illegitimate if they disrupt the normal lives of border populations and do not take human rights and the rule of law into account.