Lack of Basic Conditions and Improper Treatment Drive Inmates to Extreme Measures: Garnik Danielyan

Garnik Danielyan, a member of the 'Armenia' parliamentary group, has raised an alarming issue: 'The lack of basic conditions and improper treatment are driving inmates to resort to extreme measures, such as hunger strikes, self-harm, and suicide. In recent years, the numerous cases of death and suicide in prisons should be recognized as a warning sign. I have repeatedly spoken about the fact that inmates often do not receive the necessary medication and medical assistance when in need, leading to severe consequences. It seems that no one is interested in the health status of these individuals.

There are numerous unresolved issues in correctional facilities concerning the quality of water, the lack of shelves, and general furniture shortages. I raised all these issues months ago; I have had working meetings with the now former Deputy Minister of Justice, to whom we submitted our proposals. I also addressed these issues in the presence of the newly appointed minister. The Human Rights Defender should have taken action here, personally documenting all these problems during visits and demanding urgent solutions from the authorities. Unfortunately, neither this individual nor the former and current ministers of justice have taken any steps to rectify the situation or to reassess the treatment of inmates.'