It is Condemnable to Divide People into Literates and Illiterates and to Link This to Election Results: Human Rights Defender

The Human Rights Defender of Armenia, Arman Tatoyan, has stated:

Since the day of the parliamentary elections on June 21, 2021, new dangerous manifestations have emerged in the public domain that divide people into groups and foster insults, hatred, and intolerance. This refers to artificial divisions deepening societal polarization, such as 'rural and urban residents', 'literate and illiterate', 'backward and developed', which are linked to the results of the elections.

At the core of this vicious discourse are condemnable theses meant to insult people, expressed with terms like 'old and new', 'black and white', 'bastard', 'zombie', 'sold traitor', and others. More specifically, certain circles of the opposition and their supporters claim that urban residents, intellectuals, and educated people voted for them.

On the other hand, representatives of the authorities and their supporters retaliate with insulting expressions against the opposition and their supporters, leading to a retaliatory environment. As a result, the entire society is caught in a vicious cycle of insults, curses, and counter-attacks due to this tension.

The situation is further aggravated by the fake social media accounts operating under the direction or coordination of both the authorities and opposition, which have not only persisted but have become more aggressive on certain issues.

The call by the Prime Minister of Armenia to end insults and stop animosity during the June 21 gathering was commendable and significant, especially since it was directed even at his own political allies and supporters. It is expected that the representatives of the authorities, especially those holding high positions and recognized in society, should first heed this call. Unfortunately, some among them demonstrate the opposite with their condemnable behavior.

An example of such behavior is Edward Aghajanyan, the former head of the Prime Minister’s office, who is officially presented as a member of the governing faction in the newly formed National Assembly based on the results of the parliamentary snap elections. His behavior exemplifies how a representative of the authorities, especially a high-ranking official, should not conduct themselves. Specifically, disregarding the Prime Minister’s call, he made a post containing openly insulting expressions directed at a portion of society, using condemnable language such as 'intellectual fools', 'the Armenian people have been brought to their knees', and 'will always bring them to their knees'.

This glaringly provocative post has triggered new 'discussions' filled with insults and curses under his post and others. It has gained wide circulation on the internet and has become the subject of media analysis, further promoting the growth of intolerance.

Moreover, this individual’s post and comments reflect a mocking attitude towards society or at least a segment of it, exhibiting an irresponsible tolerance for exacerbating divisions by contrasting one’s own perceived superiority against society. The Human Rights Defender urges all political forces, public figures, and religious leaders to refrain from actions that polarize society and increase tension, and to avoid language that carries insults or fosters hatred. It is necessary to consider even the metaphorical meanings of words or expressions and their possible interpretations in society.

All forms of attacks from fake armies should be eliminated. The role of journalists and media is crucial; they must be more vigilant regarding the nature of the information they disseminate and the titles of their materials. Furthermore, individuals holding a state status or office must realize that they do not cease to be officials regardless of workdays or hours, or if they are on vacation. Deviating from their legal status constitutes a violation of the law. People must not be subjected to discrimination due to political views. Every process should be based on the rule of law, and every initiative must be grounded in human rights.