The Human Rights Defender Anahit Manasyan delivered a
welcome speech during the discussion of the national report of the Republic of
Armenia under the Fourth Cycle of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR).
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Vahan Kostanyan,
Acting Resident Coordinator of the UN Office in Armenia Christine Weigand, and
Acting Chair of the RA National Assembly Standing Committee on Protection of
Human Rights and Public Affairs Rustam Bakoyan also addressed welcome speeches.
During the discussion, which included representatives of
civil society, the draft report, its themes, structure, and key directions were
presented.
Anahit Manasyan emphasized the exceptional importance of
all UN mechanisms in strengthening democracy and the human rights protection
system in any country.
"The tools and recommendations presented by various
UN bodies are crucial for me, as the Human Rights Defender, in determining the
directions necessary for the development of the human rights protection system,
as they are based on specific international standards," the Defender
stated.
Anahit Manasyan noted that effective cooperation has been
established between UN partners and the Defender's Institution, enabling the
development of solutions to numerous issues.
"It is particularly important to adopt an
appropriate approach to equality and anti-discrimination in the context of
Armenia's reality, especially regarding the protection of the rights of
vulnerable groups. This year, we have paid special attention to the prevention
of torture, given the numerous challenges, particularly in the investigation of
cases involving torture and other forms of ill-treatment, which I have
consistently addressed in various formats," the Defender added.
Anahit Manasyan also expressed gratitude to civil society
and relevant state institutions for their effective collaboration and joint
efforts, highlighting the importance of promptly addressing and resolving human
rights-related issues raised by the state.