The
Human Rights Defender Ms. Anahit Manasyan, joining the 16 Days of Activism
against Gender-Based Violence, an annual international campaign, participated
in a panel discussion organized as part of an Expanded Meeting of the Gender
Thematic Group.
The
event aimed to review activities after the adoption of the law on domestic
violence, identify key priorities for the next five years in light of recent
amendments, and address challenges faced by women during humanitarian crises.
Ms.
Manasyan mentioned that this event is another opportunity to combine efforts to
combat domestic violence.
"There
is absolutely no justification for any form of violence, especially
gender-based violence. I firmly believe that a robust human rights protection
system can only thrive in a tolerant and supportive environment. Such an
environment requires collective effort and is the foundation of a violence-free
society. We must consistently take action and demonstrate, through our own behavior,
the significance and methods of addressing negative phenomena", stated the
Defender.
In
her speech, Ms. Manasyan mentioned that there are many positive changes in the
sphere, but problems persist.
"Clearly,
significant progress has been made since 15 years ago, thanks to legislative
reforms and capacity-building efforts. Nevertheless, challenges persist,
particularly in the areas of education and the capacity of relevant bodies. A
fundamental reform of the education system and enhanced training for
professionals are crucial to address these issues” stated the Defender.
The
Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Affairs Ms. Tatevik Stepanyan, Deputy of
the National Assembly of Armenia Ms. Zaruhi Batoyan, the Head of Division of
Policy Development and Monitoring in the sphere of Ensuring Public Security and
Combating Crime of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Armenia Ms. Natali
Sahakyan, the Program Manager of Women's Support Center Ms. Hasmik Gevorgyan,
the Coordinator of Coalition to Stop Violence against Women Ms. Nare
Hayrapetyan and Founding Director of Safe You Platform Ms. Mariam Torosyan
participated in the panel discussion.
Before
the start of the discussion, the Minister of Labor and Social Affairs Mr. Narek
Mkrtchyan, the Ambassador and the Head of Delegation of the European Union to
Armenia H.E. Mr. Vassilis Maragos, the UN Resident Coordinator in Armenia Ms.
Françoise Jacob and Deputy of EU Mission in Armenia (EUMA) Nr. Marek Kuberski
delivered welcoming speeches.
A
film screening "From Silence to Law: Combating Domestic Violence"
also took place, and through a video called "Azatuhi", women who have
experienced domestic violence disclosed their stories.
The
event conducted in the scope of the "Promotion of human rights protection
and strengthening of national institutions” program, which is co-financed by
the European Union and is implemented by the United Nations Development
Program, the United Nations Population Fund, and UNICEF.
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