The Human Rights Defender reflected on the cases of
domestic violence during these days, noting that a working group on domestic
violence issues was established at the Office. The statement reads as follows:
“The restrictions
imposed during the State of Emergency aimed at preventing the spread of novel
coronavirus (COVID-19) increase the risk of violence in the family, especially
against, women, children and the elderly.
During these days,
such issues are common in many countries, because of the special instructions
for preventing the spread of the infection worldwide (isolation, not going to
work, social issues as side effects, etc.).
Following the declaration of the State of Emergency
in the country, the Human Rights Defender’s Office has received 13 complaints
on violence against women, children and a case against an elderly man.
As a comparison, last year during the same period 5
such complaints were received. Besides, we should consider that these cases are
latent or hidden.
Since the first
days of the State of Emergency, domestic violence issues have been subject of
separate discussion at the Defender’s Office. However, during these days, the
prevention of domestic violence requires more professional approaches, which
will ensure proper and coordinated preventive activities, as well as a full
identification of the problems and solutions.
Another important
factor is that the State of Emergency has been extended, which makes the issue
more urgent and requires more coordinated work.
Therefore, today,
the Human Rights Defender established a specialized working group on domestic
violence prevention issues.
The working group
is tasked to pay special attention to violence against women, children and the
elderly. Moreover, the working group will discuss both written and oral
complaints, as well as will conduct monitor (media publications, work of state
bodies, etc).
The Human Rights
Defender’s Office is in contact with the Police and relevant NGOs: more
effective information exchange will be carried out and joint discussions will
be held on the issues with regard to domestic violence prevention.”
Mr. Arman Tatoyan, the Human Rights Defender of
Armenia
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