Human Rights Defender Issues Statement Regarding Current Situation

On October 20, the Human Rights Defender's office announced that during the monitoring of mass media and social media, they received information regarding the ongoing tense situation in front of the Gyumri City Hall.

Reports have circulated that disproportionate force was used against citizens, with a group of individuals taken to the police station. Under the instructions of the Human Rights Defender, a representative from the Shirak regional department is currently visiting the relevant police station to assess the rights of individuals deprived of their liberty.

Additionally, monitoring has indicated that the current situation has disrupted the normal functioning of several kindergartens in the community, affecting children's right to pre-school education. The Defender emphasizes once again that in all such processes, it is essential to adhere strictly to the principle of ensuring the best interests of the child.

The Human Rights Defender is currently investigating all circulating information to ensure an appropriate response within its mandate.