Hate Speech Against Armenians Heard at All Levels: Human Rights Defender to OSCE Representative

Human Rights Defender Anahit Manasyan met with OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Teresa Ribeiro during her visit to Vienna today, June 20. Anahit Manasyan presented the priorities of the Defender's activities, emphasizing the importance of ongoing efforts and programs aimed at eliminating hate speech.

They also discussed issues related to guaranteeing the right to freedom of expression by the media and ensuring the safety of journalists, highlighting the crucial role of media in the establishment of a democratic society. The significance of adhering to ethical standards by journalists was stressed from the perspective of ensuring professional journalistic activities.

Teresa Ribeiro congratulated Anahit Manasyan on taking up the important mission of the Human Rights Defender, noting the role of national institutions engaged in the protection of human rights in the realization of freedom of speech and press rights.

During the meeting, the Defender specifically addressed Azerbaijan’s state-sponsored and socially pervasive anti-Armenian policies. “The Human Rights Defender's staff conducts daily monitoring of the Azerbaijani media landscape and social platforms. Hate speech against Armenians is heard at all levels of society, including from high-ranking officials in Azerbaijan,” stated the Defender.