Armenian Parliament Committee Does Not Support Opposition Bill on Criminalizing Genocide Denial

According to current legislation, genocide denial is criminalized only if the act is committed with the intention of inciting hatred or violence based on racial or ethnic affiliation. This was stated by Artsvik Minasyan, secretary of the parliamentary group of the "Armenia" opposition alliance, during the discussions of the bill amending the Criminal Code in the Permanent Parliamentary Committee on State and Legal Affairs.

“There are numerous cases where individuals, by denying the fact of genocide, are indirectly attempting to diminish that criminal act or even portray the victim as guilty. Unfortunately, current legislation does not ensure that such individuals are held accountable,” added Minasyan.

He also reminded that the Declaration of Independence of Armenia stipulates the obligation to support the international recognition of the Armenian Genocide. The legislator noted that these amendments are based on the interests of protecting national identity and statehood.

According to the draft, the denial, minimization, approval, or justification of the Armenian Genocide or similar crimes would be punishable by a fine, community service, or up to 4 years of imprisonment. If the act was committed with the aim of inciting hatred, discrimination, or violence based on racial, national, or religious affiliation, the punishment foresees imprisonment of 4 to 8 years. However, if it was committed using media, information technologies, or official authorities, a stricter penalty would apply, with imprisonment of 10 to 15 years and deprivation of the right to hold certain positions for up to 5 years.

After prolonged discussions, this legislative initiative received a negative conclusion from the permanent parliamentary committee.