1. What are the fundamental legal rights guaranteed to individuals in Armenia?

Some of the fundamental legal rights guaranteed to individuals in Armenia include:

1. The right to life and personal security: Every individual has the right to life and protection of their person from violence, threats, or any other form of physical abuse.

2. The right to liberty and security of person: No one shall be deprived of their liberty except in accordance with law.

3. The right to a fair trial: Every individual has the right to a fair and impartial trial by an independent court or tribunal when facing criminal charges.

4. The presumption of innocence: Everyone charged with a criminal offense is considered innocent until proven guilty according to law.

5. Freedom from torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment: No one shall be subjected to torture or any other form of cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.

6. Freedom of thought, conscience and religion: Every individual has the right to freedom of thought, belief, opinion, and religion, including the freedom to change their religion or beliefs.

7. Freedom of speech and expression: Everyone has the freedom to express their opinions, receive and impart information without interference from public authorities.

8. Right to privacy: Every person has the right to privacy and protection against unlawful interference with their private and family life.

9. Equality before the law: All individuals are equal before the law and are entitled without any discrimination to equal protection under the law.

10. Right to education: Education is accessible and available for everyone on equal terms based on his abilities regardless of gender, race, religion or ethnic origin.

11. The right to work: All citizens have the right for work; every able-bodied person has equal opportunity at entrepreneurial activity; all persons have a guaranteed social security at unemployment;

12. The right for property ownership/property rights protection by state/at family

13.The freedom of peaceful assembly and association

14.The citizenship rights/rights granted by Armenian citizenship: The right to apply for Armenian citizenship, the right to hold dual citizenship, and protection from arbitrary deprivation of Armenian citizenship.

15. Rights of national minorities: National minorities shall not be subject to any restrictions in their rights by laws or other legal acts only because they belong to a minority group.

16. The right to health care: Every individual has the right to health care services provided by state institutions.

2. What are the constitutional protections for civil liberties in Armenia?

The following are the main constitutional protections for civil liberties in Armenia:

1. Right to life and personal security: Article 16 of the Armenian Constitution guarantees the right to life and personal security for every individual.

2. Equality before the law: Article 14 states that all individuals are equal before the law, and no one shall be discriminated against based on gender, race, national or social origin, language, religion, political or other views, property or official position.

3. Protection from torture and inhuman treatment: Article 9 prohibits torture and inhuman treatment in all circumstances.

4. Freedom of thought and expression: Article 27 guarantees freedom of thought and expression, including freedom of speech, press and other forms of mass media.

5. Right to privacy: Article 19 protects the privacy of citizens’ personal and family life, home, documents and correspondence.

6. Freedom of religion: Article 41 guarantees freedom of conscience and religion for all individuals.

7. Right to assembly: Article 44 states that citizens have the right to assemble peacefully without arms, organize meetings or demonstrations, rallies or processions with prior notification (parades need prior consent), establish associations without any prior authorization; nevertheless assemblies may only be prohibited by a court order if there is a compelling state interest at stake.

8. Presumption of innocence: Article 34 states that every person charged with a criminal offense is presumed innocent until proven guilty according to law and has the right to a fair trial.

9. Right to fair trial: Articles 34-37 outline various rights related to a fair trial, including access to defense counsel, public hearings unless otherwise specified by law; obligatory spoken communication through an interpreter during trial procedures upon request by those not speaking state language(s).

10. Prohibition of arbitrary arrest or detention: Article 23 prohibits arbitrary arrest or detention except by court order or flagrant acts during impeachable offenses against state security.

11. Right to citizenship: Article 13 guarantees the right to citizenship for individuals who were born or primarily reside in Armenia.

12. Protection of property rights: Article 18 guarantees the protection of private property from unlawful seizure or encroachment by state agencies, society, organizations founded on state and entities founded according to a law corporative regulation or individual regulations except under court order and constitutional procedure for public benefit in return for full value reimbursement.

13. Right to education: Article 35 guarantees free primary and secondary education, as well as opportunities for higher and vocational education based on academic merits.

14. Access to information: Article 27 also guarantees the right to freely receive and impart information, ideas, revelations or disseminate them orally in writing or through technical means consistent with the existing legislation’s principles including peace previsions leading to imprisonment (during emergency-type conditions).

15. Prohibition of forced labor: Article 30 prohibits forced labor except during lawful sentencing due to committing a felony.

3. How does the judicial system provide equal protection under the law for all citizens in Armenia?

The judicial system in Armenia provides equal protection under the law to all citizens through several mechanisms:

1. Separation of Powers: The Armenian constitution establishes a separation of powers between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government. This ensures that no one branch has too much power, and that the judiciary is independent from political influence.

2. Equality before the Law: Under Article 6 of the Constitution of Armenia, all citizens are equal before the law and are entitled to enjoy equal rights and freedoms. This means that every citizen has an equal right to access justice and receive fair treatment in court regardless of their social status, religion, ethnicity, or gender.

3. Independent Judiciary: The judiciary in Armenia operates independently from the other branches of government. Judges are appointed for life and cannot be removed without a serious breach of ethics or constitutional violation. This ensures that judges can make impartial decisions without fear of reprisal or interference from other branches of government.

4. Fair Trials: The Armenian constitution guarantees the right to a fair trial for all citizens. This includes the right to due process, legal representation, access to evidence and witnesses, and a presumption of innocence until proven guilty.

5. Public Access to Court Proceedings: The law stipulates that all court proceedings must be conducted publicly unless otherwise provided by law. This allows for transparency in the judicial process and ensures that citizens can observe how cases are being handled.

6. Prohibition against Discrimination: Discrimination based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation or any other characteristic is strictly prohibited by law in Armenia’s courts.

7. Legal Aid: The state provides free legal assistance to those who cannot afford it themselves. This ensures that even those with limited financial resources have access to legal representation.

8. International Human Rights Obligations: Armenia is party to various international human rights treaties and conventions which oblige the country to protect its citizens’ rights and provide equal protection under the law.

Overall, the Armenian judicial system strives to provide equal protection for all citizens through its commitment to an independent and fair judiciary, equal treatment before the law, and adherence to domestic and international principles of equality and human rights.

4. What laws are in place to protect against discrimination based on race, gender, or other factors in Armenia?

The Constitution of Armenia guarantees equal rights and opportunities for all individuals, regardless of race, gender, nationality, or other factors. In addition to this general protection against discrimination, there are specific laws in place to address discrimination based on race and gender.

Race:
1. Law on Combating Discrimination: This law was adopted in 2004 and prohibits discrimination based on race, color, ethnicity, or national origin in all areas of life including employment, housing, education, and access to public services.
2. Criminal Code: Article 62 of the Criminal Code makes it a criminal offense to incite hatred towards a certain race or nationality.
3. Labor Code: The Labor Code also prohibits discriminatory practices based on race in the workplace.

Gender:
1. Law on Equal Rights and Opportunities for Men and Women: This law was adopted in 2013 and aims to promote gender equality and protect against gender-based discrimination in all areas of life.
2. Criminal Code: Articles 139-141 of the Criminal Code criminalizes various forms of violence against women including domestic violence, sexual harassment, and trafficking.
3. Civil Code: The Civil Code also contains provisions prohibiting gender-based discrimination in matters such as marriage and divorce.

Other Factors:
1. Disability Rights Protection Law: This law was adopted in 2006 and prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas including employment, education, health care, transportation, and access to public facilities.
2. Anti-Discrimination Training Center: This center was established by the Armenian Government in 2010 with the aim of promoting awareness about non-discrimination principles through trainings for various sectors such as civil servants and private sector employees.
3. Ombudsman Institution: The Ombudsman serves as an independent human rights defender who can receive complaints from individuals who believe they have been discriminated against and investigate these cases.

Overall Enforcement:
The above laws are enforced by relevant government bodies and agencies such as the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs, the Human Rights Defender’s Office, and the Anti-Discrimination Center. Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against can file a complaint with these institutions or take their case to court. If found guilty of discrimination, perpetrators can face fines, imprisonment, or other forms of punishment.

5. How does Armenia’s legal system safeguard freedom of speech and expression?

Armenia’s legal system safeguards freedom of speech and expression through several mechanisms:

1. Constitutional Protections: The Constitution of Armenia explicitly guarantees the right to freedom of speech and expression in Article 27. It states that everyone has the right to freely express their opinion, speak, write, publish, and disseminate information, thoughts, ideas, and beliefs.

2. International Human Rights Treaties: Armenia is a signatory to various international human rights treaties that protect freedom of speech and expression, such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). These treaties serve as an additional safeguard for basic human rights and are enforceable in national courts.

3. Independent Judiciary: The judiciary in Armenia is considered relatively independent from political influence, ensuring fair trial and protection of fundamental rights.

4. Protection from Censorship: Under Armenian law, censorship is prohibited, except for certain exceptions listed in the law. This means that individuals cannot be prosecuted or punished for expressing their opinions or ideas unless it falls under one of the specified exceptions.

5. Criminal Code Provisions: The Criminal Code of Armenia contains provisions that protect freedom of speech and expression by criminalizing actions such as obstructing or interfering with someone else’s right to free expression.

6. Media Freedom: In addition to general protections for freedom of speech and expression, there are specific laws that protect media outlets from undue interference by the government or other authorities.

7. Right to Information Law: In 2003, Armenia enacted a Law on Freedom of Information which guarantees citizens’ right to access official information held by public bodies without any restrictions or limitations.

8. Judicial Review: Individuals who believe their right to free speech has been violated can challenge this in court through judicial review.

9. Active Civil Society: Civil society organizations play an important role in monitoring and advocating for free speech rights in Armenia. These groups often raise awareness and provide legal assistance to individuals whose rights have been violated.

Overall, Armenia’s legal system provides robust protections for freedom of speech and expression. However, there are still concerns about the practical implementation of these laws and reports of government pressure on media outlets and journalists.

6. What are the requirements for fair and impartial trials in Armenia?

The requirements for fair and impartial trials in Armenia include:

1. Presumption of innocence: Under the Armenian Constitution, everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty. This means that the burden of proof is on the prosecution to establish the guilt of the accused beyond a reasonable doubt.

2. Right to an attorney: Every individual has the right to be represented by a lawyer during criminal proceedings in Armenia. If an accused person cannot afford a lawyer, one will be provided free of charge by the state.

3. Right to a public trial: All trials in Armenia must be conducted in public, unless exceptional circumstances require otherwise.

4. Equality before the law: The laws and procedures must apply equally to all individuals without discrimination based on race, gender, religion, or any other factor.

5. Right to a fair and speedy trial: The Armenian Constitution guarantees the right to a fair and speedy trial within a reasonable time period. Delays in proceedings are scrutinized and may lead to dismissal of charges.

6. Impartiality of judges and court officials: Judges are expected to remain impartial and not be influenced by external pressures or personal biases.

7. Access to evidence: Both the prosecution and defense have the right to examine all evidence collected by law enforcement agencies.

8. Right to cross-examine witnesses: The defense has the right to cross-examine witnesses brought forward by the prosecution.

9. Prohibition of self-incrimination: An accused individual has the right not to testify against themselves during a trial.

10. Confidentiality of proceedings: Court hearings must take place in closed sessions only under certain circumstances, such as when sensitive information is being discussed or when minors are involved.

11. Right to appeal: Individuals have the right to appeal their convictions or sentences if they believe there were errors made during their trial.

12. Presence of an interpreter if needed: If an accused person does not speak Armenian or has difficulty understanding it, they have the right to an interpreter during all court proceedings.

13. Prohibition of torture or coercion: Coerced confessions or other evidence obtained through torture or other forms of coercion are not admissible in court.

7. How is due process protected in criminal cases in Armenia?

Due process is protected in criminal cases in Armenia through several mechanisms:

1. Presumption of innocence: Article 27 of the Constitution of Armenia states that every person accused of a crime is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court. This means that the burden of proof lies with the prosecution to prove the guilt of the accused beyond a reasonable doubt.

2. Right to a fair and public trial: Article 70 of the Criminal Procedure Code guarantees every person charged with a crime the right to a fair and public trial within a reasonable time. This includes the right to be informed promptly and in detail about the charges against them, the right to have adequate time and facilities for their defense, and the right to be present at their trial.

3. Right to legal representation: Under Article 67 of the Criminal Procedure Code, every person charged with a crime has the right to choose their own lawyer or have one appointed by the state if they cannot afford one. The lawyer is responsible for defending their client’s rights and interests throughout all stages of criminal proceedings.

4. Right to remain silent: Article 68 of the Criminal Procedure Code states that no person can be compelled to testify against themselves or their close relatives. This means that an accused person has the right to remain silent during questioning and cannot be forced by authorities to confess or reveal self-incriminating information.

5. Exclusion of unlawfully obtained evidence: According to Article 71 of the Criminal Procedure Code, evidence obtained through illegal means, such as torture, coercion, or violation of other fundamental rights, is not admissible in court.

6. Public prosecutor’s obligation to disclose evidence: The prosecutor is required under Article 72 of the Criminal Procedure Code to disclose all evidence gathered during investigation and provide copies to both parties before trial. This ensures transparency and allows for an effective defense.

7. Right to appeal: In case of conviction, an accused person has the right to appeal the decision to a higher court. The appeals process guarantees a review of the case by a different set of judges, providing an opportunity for any errors or violations of due process to be corrected.

Overall, the Armenian legal system is designed to protect the rights of individuals accused of crimes and ensure a fair and just criminal trial.

8. How does the government uphold privacy rights for its citizens in Armenia?

The Republic of Armenia is committed to protecting the privacy rights of its citizens and has taken several steps to uphold these rights.

1. Constitution: The Constitution of Armenia guarantees the right to privacy for all its citizens. Article 31 states that “Everyone shall have the right to confidentiality of his or her private, personal, family life and communication.”

2. Data Protection Law: In 2018, the government adopted a new Data Protection Law which aims to regulate the collection, processing and protection of personal data in accordance with European standards.

3. Independent Supervisory Authority: The Data Protection Law also established an independent supervisory authority, the Personal Data Protection Inspectorate (PDPI). This body is responsible for monitoring and enforcing compliance with data protection laws in Armenia.

4. Information Security Systems: The Armenian government has implemented robust information security systems to protect sensitive personal data collected by government agencies.

5. Whistleblower Protection: The whistleblower protection law was introduced in 2011 to ensure that individuals can report any violations of their privacy without fear of retaliation.

6. Access to Information: The Law on Freedom of Information allows citizens to request access to personal data held by public bodies.

7. Awareness Campaigns: The Armenian government regularly conducts awareness campaigns to educate citizens on their data protection rights and measures they can take to safeguard their privacy.

8. International Cooperation: Armenia has also signed various international agreements and treaties related to data protection such as the Council of Europe Convention for the Protection of Individuals with regard to Automatic Processing of Personal Data (Convention 108).

Overall, the Armenian government is committed to upholding privacy rights for its citizens through legislation, regulation, and awareness campaigns. They continue working towards aligning their privacy laws with international standards and ensuring that personal data is protected and handled responsibly by both public and private entities.

9. Are there specific laws protecting minority groups from violence or discrimination in Armenia?

Yes, there are several laws in place to protect minority groups from violence and discrimination in Armenia.

1. The Armenian Constitution guarantees equal rights and freedoms for all citizens regardless of their nationality or ethnic origin.

2. The Law on the Fundamentals of the Cultural Policy of the Republic of Armenia prohibits any form of discrimination on the basis of ethnicity, language, religion, and culture.

3. The Criminal Code includes provisions that criminalize hate speech and hate crimes targeting individuals or groups based on their ethnicity, nationality, race, or religion.

4. The Law on Equal Rights and Equal Opportunities for Women and Men aims to prevent gender-based discrimination and violence against women.

5. The Law on Education also prohibits discrimination in schools and ensures equal access to education for all students, including minorities.

6. Armenia ratified the United Nations International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD) in 1993 and is obligated to take measures to eliminate racial discrimination.

7. The government has established the Human Rights Defender’s Office, an independent institution responsible for protecting the rights of minorities and addressing complaints of human rights violations.

8. In 2016, Armenia passed a new law prohibiting domestic violence and providing protection for victims.

9. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) working with minority groups also play a crucial role in advocating for their rights, promoting tolerance and diversity, and providing support services for victims of discrimination or violence.

Overall, while there are laws in place to protect minority groups from violence and discrimination in Armenia, there have been instances where these laws were not effectively enforced. There is still room for improvement in ensuring that these laws are implemented effectively to protect all individuals from discrimination and violence based on their ethnicity or other identities.

10. What legal provisions exist to ensure access to education and healthcare for all citizens in Armenia?

There are several legal provisions in place in Armenia to ensure access to education and healthcare for all citizens:

1. The Constitution of Armenia guarantees the right to education and healthcare for all citizens (Article 31).

2. The Law on Education sets out the principles of accessibility, inclusivity, and equality in education, and prohibits discrimination based on various grounds including income, gender, religion, nationality, or disability (Article 3).

3. The Law on Healthcare ensures the provision of equal and accessible healthcare services to all citizens without any discrimination (Article 35).

4. The Law on Social Assistance guarantees access to social assistance services for vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities, children in difficult life situations, and elderly individuals (Article 5).

5. The Law on Compulsory Health Insurance establishes a mandatory health insurance system for all citizens in Armenia, ensuring access to basic medical services regardless of their financial situation.

6. The Government of Armenia has adopted targeted programs and policies aimed at improving access to education and healthcare for marginalized groups such as refugees, internally displaced persons, and ethnic minorities.

7. Public schools and hospitals are largely free-of-charge in Armenia, with additional support provided through various state programs and subsidies.

8. Private schools and hospitals must comply with minimum standards set by the government to ensure access for all citizens.

9. In case of violation or denial of the right to education or healthcare, individuals have the right to seek legal protection through courts according to the Civil Code.

10. The Office of Human Rights Defender serves as an independent institution that monitors violations of human rights, including cases related to access to education and healthcare.

11. How does the justice system handle cases of police misconduct or abuse of power in Armenia?

Cases of police misconduct or abuse of power in Armenia are handled by the country’s justice system, which includes both criminal and administrative proceedings.

1. Criminal Proceedings:
– When a complaint is filed against a police officer, the prosecution service conducts an investigation to determine if there is sufficient evidence for criminal charges.
– If there is enough evidence, the officer will be charged with a criminal offense and will be prosecuted through criminal proceedings. This may result in penalties such as imprisonment or financial fines.
– Victims also have the right to seek compensation for damages caused by the misconduct through civil lawsuits.

2. Administrative Proceedings:
– Administrative proceedings can also be initiated against police officers who have committed acts of misconduct or abuse of power.
– These proceedings are carried out by an internal department within the police force. They can result in disciplinary measures such as suspension, demotion, or dismissal from the force.
– In cases where the misconduct constitutes a violation of human rights, victims can file complaints with human rights organizations or ombudsmen for further investigation and action.

3. Special Investigative Commission:
– The Armenian government has also established a Special Investigative Commission (SIC) to handle cases of gross violations committed by law enforcement officers.
– The SIC has the authority to investigate allegations of serious crimes committed by police officers and can recommend disciplinary measures or criminal prosecution if necessary.

4. External Oversight Mechanisms:
– Members of the public can file complaints directly with external oversight bodies such as the Ombudsman’s Office or Anti-Corruption Coalition of NGOs for further investigation.
– These oversight bodies monitor police activities and conduct audits to address issues related to corruption and abuse of power within law enforcement agencies.

5. Legal Aid:
– Victims have access to legal aid services provided by NGOs to assist them in their pursuit for justice against police misconduct.

It should be noted that there have been instances where victims have faced intimidation and harassment when filing complaints against police officers. To address this, the Armenian government has implemented measures such as anonymous and online reporting systems to protect individuals who have faced police abuse.

12. Are there any measures taken by the government to protect citizens’ voting rights and fair elections in Armenia?

Yes, there are several measures taken by the government of Armenia to protect citizens’ voting rights and ensure fair elections:

1. Electoral Code: The Electoral Code of Armenia, adopted in 2016, contains provisions that safeguard the right to vote for all citizens and promote fair and transparent elections.

2. Independent Election Commission: The Central Election Commission (CEC) of Armenia is an independent body responsible for organizing and conducting elections in the country. It comprises 15 members appointed by the President, National Assembly, and political parties represented in Parliament.

3. Voter Registration: All eligible voters in Armenia are required to register before each election. The CEC oversees the voter registration process to ensure its accuracy and transparency.

4. Voter Education: The CEC conducts voter education campaigns to inform citizens about their rights and responsibilities during elections.

5. International Observation: The government of Armenia invites international organizations such as the OSCE/ODIHR to observe its elections and issue reports on their fairness and transparency.

6. Media Monitoring: A media monitoring commission is established by the CEC to ensure balanced coverage of all political parties during election campaigns.

7. Campaign Finance Regulations: The Electoral Code sets limits on campaign expenditures for political parties and requires them to report their finances to the CEC.

8. Vote Counting Procedures: Detailed procedures are in place for counting votes at polling stations, ensuring transparency and accuracy in the tallying process.

9. Complaints Mechanism: A complaint mechanism is available for citizens to report any violations or irregularities during an election. The CEC investigates these complaints and takes necessary actions based on their findings.

10. Legal Remedies: Any citizen can challenge the results of an election through legal means if they believe it was unfair or fraudulent.

11. Awareness Programs: In addition to voter education campaigns, various civil society organizations run awareness programs on voting rights and encourage citizens’ participation in democratic processes.

12 . Social Media Monitoring: Specialized units are established within the CEC to monitor social media for any campaigning violations or disinformation during elections.

13. Are international human rights treaties ratified and enforced by the government of Armenia?

Yes, Armenia has ratified numerous international human rights treaties and is committed to enforcing them. Some of the key human rights treaties that Armenia has ratified include the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

Armenia is also a signatory to the European Convention on Human Rights and has recognized the jurisdiction of the European Court of Human Rights. The government has established national mechanisms for monitoring and promoting human rights, such as the Human Rights Defender’s Office.

While progress has been made in implementing these commitments, there are still challenges in fully enforcing human rights in practice. The government continues to face criticism for issues like torture and ill-treatment of detainees, restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly, discrimination against vulnerable groups such as women and minorities, and lack of effective remedies for human rights violations.

14. Is there a legal framework for protecting workers’ rights, including minimum wage and safe working conditions, in Armenia?

Yes, there is a legal framework for protecting workers’ rights in Armenia. The main laws that protect the rights and interests of workers in Armenia include the Labor Code, the Law on Employment, the Law on State Social Security, and the Law on Trade Unions.

The Labor Code sets out the basic principles of employment relationships, including non-discrimination, equal treatment, collective bargaining, and protection against wrongful termination. It also regulates working hours, rest periods, vacation time, and other working conditions.

The Law on Employment aims to promote employment opportunities and protect the rights of employees through labor market regulation. It regulates issues such as employment contracts, wages and salaries, working hours and safety standards.

The Law on State Social Security guarantees social security benefits for workers in case of unemployment, sickness or disability.

Furthermore, there are specific laws that address minimum wage and safe working conditions for different industries such as construction and mining. These laws set minimum wage requirements and safety standards that employers must comply with.

In addition to these laws, Armenia has ratified various international conventions related to labor rights protection such as the International Labour Organization (ILO) Conventions.

Workers can seek help from relevant government bodies such as the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs if their rights are violated. They can also seek assistance from trade unions which have the right to negotiate collective agreements with employers on behalf of their members.

15. How does the justice system handle cases of domestic violence and protect victims’ rights in Armenia?

The justice system in Armenia has several laws and measures in place to handle cases of domestic violence and protect victims’ rights.

1. Legal Framework:
The main laws that deal with domestic violence in Armenia are the Law on the Prevention of Domestic Violence (2010) and the Criminal Code (2003). These laws define domestic violence, provide legal protection and remedies for victims, and prescribe penalties for perpetrators.

2. Police Response:
In cases of domestic violence, victims can file complaints with the police who are responsible for investigating and documenting the incidents. They can also issue emergency restraining orders to protect victims and their children.

3. Protection Orders:
Victims can apply to the court for a protection order against their abuser. This order can include measures such as ordering the perpetrator to leave the shared residence, banning them from contacting or approaching the victim, or surrendering firearms.

4. State-sponsored Shelters:
The government of Armenia operates several state-funded shelters for survivors of domestic violence. These shelters offer temporary accommodation, counseling services, legal aid, medical treatment, and job placement assistance.

5. Specialized Courts:
In 2016, specialized courts were established in Armenia to exclusively handle domestic violence cases. These courts are equipped with specially trained judges and staff who understand the complexities of domestic violence cases.

6. Counseling and Support Services:
Victims can access counseling services provided by NGOs or community centers funded by the government. These services offer emotional support as well as legal advice to victims.

7. Legal Aid:
Low-income individuals can receive free legal aid through non-governmental organizations (NGOs) or public defender’s offices to assist them with navigating through the legal system.

8. Awareness Campaigns:
The government periodically organizes awareness campaigns through media outlets to educate society about domestic violence, its impact on victims, how to seek help if needed, and ways to prevent it.

Overall, while there have been significant improvements in addressing domestic violence in Armenia, there are still challenges such as lack of funding and resources for victim services, limited awareness and reporting of cases, and cultural barriers that hinder progress. However, efforts are being made to continuously improve the justice system’s response to domestic violence and protect victims’ rights in Armenia.

16. Are there any specific laws protecting children’s rights and welfare in Armenia?

Yes, there are several laws in Armenia that protect children’s rights and welfare, including the Law on Child Rights and Protection (2010) and the Law on Prevention of Domestic Violence, Protection of Victims of Domestic Violence and Restoration of Solidarity in the Family (2017). These laws establish the responsibilities of the state, parents, and society in ensuring children’s safety, well-being, education, healthcare, and protection from violence. Additionally, Armenia has ratified international conventions on children’s rights such as the Convention on the Rights of the Child (1992) and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on a Communications Procedure (2010), which further strengthen legal protections for children.

17.Define defamation laws implemented legally against harassment or hate crimes targeting individuals or groups based on their identity or beliefs.

Defamation laws, also known as slander and libel laws, are legal measures implemented to protect individuals or groups from false and harmful statements made about them. These statements can be in the form of spoken or written words, images, or gestures that damage the reputation or character of an individual or group.

Harassment refers to any unwanted conduct that creates a hostile environment for an individual or group based on their identity or beliefs. Hate crimes, on the other hand, are criminal acts motivated by bias or prejudice against a person’s race, religion, nationality, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, etc.

To protect individuals and groups from harassment and hate crimes through defamation laws, the following legal actions can be taken:

1. Civil Action: An individual who has experienced harm due to defamatory statements can file a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator for damages such as loss of income, emotional distress, medical expenses, etc.

2. Criminal Action: In cases where the perpetrator’s actions are deemed criminal by law enforcement agencies, they may face criminal charges leading to fines and imprisonment.

3. Anti-Discrimination Laws: Many countries have specific laws that prohibit discrimination based on one’s identity or beliefs in areas such as employment, education, housing, etc. These laws provide legal recourse for victims of harassment and hate crimes to seek justice.

4. Free Speech Protections: While defamation laws aim to protect individuals from false and harmful statements made against them, there are also provisions for free speech protection. This means that opinions expressed without malicious intent cannot be considered defamatory.

5. Internet-specific Laws: Online platforms have become a common ground for defamatory statements aimed at individuals or groups based on their identity or beliefs. To counter this issue, some countries have implemented specific laws targeting online harassment and hate speech.

In conclusion, defamation laws play an essential role in protecting individuals and groups from harassment and hate crimes targeted at their identity or beliefs. These laws provide legal measures to seek justice and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.

18.Do foreigners enjoy equal legal rights as citizens when living or visiting Armenia?

Yes, foreigners enjoy equal legal rights as citizens when living or visiting Armenia. They have the right to a fair trial, protection against discrimination, and freedom of speech and religion. Foreigners also have the right to own property, work, and access healthcare services in Armenia. However, there may be some restrictions on certain activities for security reasons or for protecting national interests. Overall, foreigners are entitled to the same legal protections as citizens under Armenian law.

19.How do whistleblowers receive protection from retaliation if they report unethical or illegal activities by their employer or colleagues?

Whistleblowers can receive protection from retaliation by reporting unethical or illegal activities through various channels, including:

1. Government agencies: Whistleblowers can report to government agencies such as the Department of Labor, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and Securities and Exchange Commission.

2. Internal reporting mechanisms: Many companies have internal hotlines or reporting mechanisms where employees can report unethical or illegal activities anonymously.

3. Legal representation: Whistleblowers can seek legal representation from a lawyer who specializes in whistleblower protection laws.

4. Whistleblower protection laws: There are federal and state laws that provide protections for whistleblowers, such as the False Claims Act and Sarbanes-Oxley Act.

5. Anonymity: Whistleblowers can choose to remain anonymous when making a report to protect themselves from retaliation.

6. Non-retaliation policies: Some companies have policies in place that prohibit retaliation against whistleblowers.

If a whistleblower experiences retaliation for their actions, they may be entitled to remedies such as reinstatement, back pay, compensation for emotional distress, and legal fees. It is important for whistleblowers to understand their rights and protections under the law and seek appropriate legal advice if they experience retaliatory actions.

20.In what ways do disability laws mandate societies’ accommodation to special needs and accessibility for individuals with disabilities in Armenia?

There are several laws and policies in Armenia that aim to accommodate the special needs of individuals with disabilities and ensure their accessibility in society. These include:

1. The Law on the Social Protection of People with Disabilities: This law provides for the protection, support, and rehabilitation of people with disabilities and their integration into society. It also mandates the creation of necessary conditions for their education, employment, housing, and mobility.

2. The Law on Education: This law guarantees equal opportunities for education for children with disabilities and requires schools to provide necessary accommodations such as specialized equipment, transportation services, and trained teachers.

3. The Law on Employment: This law prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in the workplace and provides for reasonable accommodations to enable them to perform their job duties.

4. The Law on Accessibility: This law aims to eliminate physical barriers that prevent people with disabilities from accessing public buildings, transport, information, communication technologies, and other facilities. It also requires new buildings to be accessible and existing ones to be retrofitted.

5. The National Program for Protection of Persons with Disabilities: This program outlines the government’s strategies and actions for ensuring equal rights and opportunities for people with disabilities in all areas of life.

6. Disability Card System: In 2014, Armenia introduced a disability identification card system that aims to improve access to services and benefits for people with disabilities.

7. Inclusive Education Centers: The Ministry of Education has established inclusive education centers in various regions of Armenia to provide support services to children with special needs.

8. Rehabilitation Services: There are government-funded programs that provide rehabilitation services such as physical therapy, speech therapy, and vocational training for people with disabilities.

9. Anti-discrimination Laws: Although there is no specific law prohibiting discrimination against individuals with disabilities, the Constitution of Armenia guarantees equal rights for all citizens regardless of disability status.

In conclusion, disability laws in Armenia mandate society’s accommodation towards individuals with disabilities by ensuring their inclusion in various areas of life, providing accessibility to physical structures and services, and protecting their rights against discrimination.