Human Rights Defender Reports Issues During Yerevan City Council Election Campaign

The Human Rights Defender is conducting an independent observation of the electoral process taking place in Yerevan, based on fundamental principles of impartial and non-political work. Within this framework, a working group established by the Defender is examining media publications regarding alleged violations of electoral rights, ensuring proper discussion of verbal and written complaints addressed to the Defender, and providing legal consultation to citizens.

During the campaign period for the Yerevan city council elections, the working group has reviewed approximately 500 publications related to alleged violations of electoral rights found in various media outlets and social networks. The results of continuous monitoring, publications, and complaints addressed to the Defender pertain to issues such as the misuse of administrative resources, material inducement for participation in gatherings, alleged cases of coercion to attend meetings, suspected violations of the rules regarding the use of campaign posters and promotional materials, tearing down campaign posters, and issues regarding the protection of children's rights and rights of persons with disabilities in the electoral process.

The office of the Human Rights Defender has particularly focused on information regarding potential obstacles to the work of journalists and observers, with apparent cases of hindrance to their activities being documented. The Defender emphasizes the importance of conducting media activities in a normal and unobstructed manner and the state's proper guarantee of this right.

The Human Rights Defender also underscores the necessity of ensuring children’s rights within the electoral process, including the right to protection of children’s personal data. The right of children to express their views must be realized in accordance with international standards, without pressure or coercion, while giving due attention to their age and maturity and ensuring their safety. The publication of photos and videos involving children should be conducted while safeguarding the