Lack of Sign Language Interpretation and Subtitles During Election Campaigns in Yerevan: Human Rights Defender

During the coverage of the 2023 Yerevan City Council election campaign, the information provided is not accessible to individuals with hearing impairments, as sign language interpretation and subtitles are largely absent. This was stated by Armenian Human Rights Defender Anahit Manasyan during a meeting with a delegation led by Tigran Hakobyan, the chairman of the Television and Radio Commission. This information was reported by the Defender's office.

During the meeting, issues related to combating hate speech, discrimination, and the promotion of violence in media were discussed. The Defender emphasized the need to develop procedures and methodologies aimed at addressing these issues based on the study of international practices.

A special focus was placed on ensuring access and availability of audiovisual media information for persons with disabilities. Specifically, it was highlighted that the information provided during the coverage of the 2023 Yerevan City Council election campaign is not accessible to individuals with hearing impairments, as sign language interpretation and subtitles are largely absent.

At the end of the meeting, both sides identified the main directions for cooperation and joint work, and the importance of establishing stable inter-agency cooperation was mutually emphasized.