One
of the vicious and deeply concerning manifestations of the electoral campaign
is the fact that supports of different political forces are preparing and
distributing pictures and videos full of insults, swearing, and humiliating
expressions about the citizens who support opposing political forces or have
expressed opinions in favor of those forces. This is about actions directed
against real persons, our compatriots.
Moreover,
insulting comments are made on the pictures and videos about the persons
expressing opinion on the elections, refereeing to their physical and mental
characteristics as well.
The
studies of the Office of the Human Rights Defender evidence that the mentioned pictures
and videos are rapidly disseminated, are mocked, and are accompanied by
insults, swearing and hate speech. Afterwards, the representatives of the
opposing forces criticize this phenomenon by using the same expressions (“filth”,
“zombie”, “sold”, “hyena”, etc.).
The
situation is further aggravated by publications of the fake pages and users,
who are more aggressive and distinguished by their calls to illegal acts,
including calls to violence.
This
absolutely vicious phenomenon first and foremost grossly violates the human
rights of the persons whose pictures and videos, accompanied by mockery,
insults, and swearing have been disseminated in social network.
It
should be taken into consideration that freedom of expression, the right to
private and family life, to dignity and dignified treatment is guaranteed to
every person by the Armenian Constitution and should be respected.
Moreover,
this vicious phenomenon is deeply concerning because it evidences the fact of
the polarization and the high level of intolerance in the society.
Therefore,
I call for an end to this vicious phenomenon, while all the political forces
participating in the pre-election campaigns must take measure, including urging
their supporters to refrain from insults, swearing, and the use of hate and
degrading speech.
One
of the main issues of this election is the restoration of solidarity and the
rule of law in the country, and not further increasing the polarization and
intolerance.
Mr.
Arman Tatoyan
The
Human Rights Defender of Armenia
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