National Assembly Passed Amendments to Domestic Violence Law

The National Assembly of Armenia approved in the second reading and adopted the amendments made to the law on "Prevention of Domestic Violence, Protection of Persons Subjected to Domestic Violence, and Restoration of Domestic Harmony." A total of 57 deputies voted in favor, 25 against, and one abstention.

The draft amendments were developed by deputies of the "Civil Contract" faction. The bill has sparked significant controversy, particularly because one of the proposed changes pertains to the prohibition of virginity testing. Additionally, the new amendments introduce the concept of "partner," which some citizens argue covertly provides protection for same-sex couples.

The Mother See issued a statement condemning the proposed changes, expressing concern over the introduction of the concept of "partner." According to the draft, a partner is defined as a person with whom there are relationships characterized by romantic ties, regardless of cohabitation or sexual relations.

The Church is worried that the draft does not exclude the possibility that same-sex individuals may also be considered partners, effectively equating their union with the concept of family. The opposition has also criticized several of the proposed amendments, calling for a clear definition that partners must be a man and a woman. However, representatives of the governing body argue that there is no such explicit definition in Armenian laws or the Constitution.