Armenia Faces Numerous Challenges: EU Ambassador on Current Situation

The European Union places great importance on and supports reforms in democratic governance, the rule of law, and the fight against discrimination in Armenia. During the "Judicial Authority as a Guarantor of Democracy" conference, EU Ambassador to Armenia Andrea Victorin emphasized this point.

"We have consistently supported the implementation of reforms in the justice sector, providing both long-term and short-term assistance. We appreciate the efforts that Armenia has made in recent years regarding democratic processes. It is also crucial that the political leadership is committed to continuing constitutional reforms as outlined in the judicial and legal reform strategy for 2019-2021," Victorin stated.

According to the EU Ambassador, an independent judiciary is the guarantor of people's rights and freedoms in a democratic country, and thus, the Constitutional Court plays a vital role in strengthening public trust in the judicial system.

"Armenia faces many challenges, and we are very impressed that the authorities are willingly continuing on the path of reforms. Currently, there is significant tension in the country, and it is crucial for all parties to work together to protect the constitutional rights of the citizens of the Republic of Armenia. We are closely monitoring the internal political situation and protests in the country. We send one message to all parties: to reduce the escalating situation. It is very important for people to be able to freely express their opinions, and law enforcement agencies and police forces should refrain from the use of brute force. Some incidents are subject to investigation; in some cases, this is already happening, and cases reach the court where decisions are made. This is how democracy operates," Victorin said.

The EU Ambassador emphasized the importance of all parties refraining from hate speech and provocations in Armenia. Any violence must be condemned. "In this situation, I believe it is more than important to encourage trust in our Constitutional Court and judicial system," Victorin concluded.