The State Will Provide Free Psychological Support for Torture Victims

Deputy Justice Minister Anna Karapetyan addressed the opening of a discussion on a project aimed at providing free psychological support to individuals affected by torture. According to the ministry's press service, in her remarks regarding the project and the analysis underpinning it, she emphasized the importance of timely and accessible psychological assistance for victims of torture and reaffirmed the state's readiness to ensure such support is practically available to all individuals who qualify as victims of this crime.

The discussion highlighted the necessity of implementing procedures that align with international standards for providing free psychological support to torture victims, as well as presenting the existing challenges in the field and pathways for improvement. A draft amendment to the Government of Armenia's decision No. 1367-N of October 26, 2017, was introduced, aimed at improving the legal framework for supporting individuals affected by torture and ensuring the provision of quality services.

It is planned to delegate the provision of such services to a relevant organization, establishing clear criteria for the involvement of experienced psychologists. Representatives from state interest bodies and NGOs participated in the event, providing their observations on the project. As a result of the discussions, the draft government decision will be revised, and further procedures will be ensured. The discussion was organized with the support of the Raoul Wallenberg Human Rights and Humanitarian Law Office in Armenia.