On
May 31, the Human Rights Defender Ms. Anahit Manasyan conducted fact-finding
activities with the representatives of the Defender’s Office in the disaster
zone of Lori province.
The
Defender visited the communities affected by floods, held private conversations
with more than 50 residents, including evacuated families. All problems,
damages caused by floods were registered on the spot.
Among
a number of social issues, citizens raised issues related to the right to
property, loss of documents, compensation for the damage caused, and the right
to education. The residents highlighted the problems related to compensation as
an issue requiring an urgent solution, which, according to the assessment of
the Defender, needs to be addressed first, from the viewpoint of guaranteeing
the proper realization of many fundamental rights of persons.
People
also raised issues related to the social-psychological condition. In that
regard, the Defender emphasizes the importance of providing proper
psychological support to residents.
The
Defender underlines that issues related to the right of the child to education
are also of primary importance, including taking into consideration the
psychological and other consequences on children as a result of the current
situation when organizing the exams.
Ms.
Manasyan informed the residents that a number of raised issues have already
been presented to the competent state bodies, for them to be able to provide
solutions.
Other
issues raised as a result of the fact-finding activities will be summarized and
addressed to the relevant authorities.
The
Defender assured that she will support the solution of all the registered
problems, and the proper realization of people's rights within the scope of her
mandate.
On
the same day, Ms. Manasyan also visited the districts damaged by the floods
together with the Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure Mr.
Gnel Sanosyan, and more than 40 diplomatic representatives accredited in
Armenia. Ms. Manasyan also visited the Sanahin station district, and held
conversations with the residents. During the visit, Mr. Aren Mkrtchyan, a
Deputy of the National Assembly of Armenia presented the damages that the
community suffered as a result of floods.
As
part of the visit to Lori province, the Human Rights Defender held a press
conference at the Unified Infocenter of Alaverdi.
The
Human Rights Defender’s Office, including the regional subdivisions of Lori and
Tavush provinces continue to work in emergency mode.
The
hotline numbers of the Defender are 116 and (096) 116100
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