On November 29, the Human
Rights Defender Ms. Anahit Manasyan delivered a welcoming speech at the opening
event of the Feminism in Action for Structural Transformation (FAST) program.
FAST was initiated by the
Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).
Ms. Anahit Manasyan
mentioned that the problems in the field of equality and anti-discrimination in
Armenia are, inter alia, the result of stereotypical approaches.
"Currently, we are very
far from having a complete understanding of equality and anti-discrimination.
Moreover, the regulations in this area are incomplete or not properly
implemented. This also applies to all issues related to the promotion and
protection of women's rights. The issue is more acute when we consider
vulnerable groups: women with disabilities and those caring for persons with
disabilities, women representing national minorities, etc. As the Human Rights
Defender, I can confidently say that their problems are not being properly
addressed. The reasons are certainly various. Among them, I consider it
important to mention the general negative attitude of society towards the
issues, which increases the likelihood that they will not only not be overcome,
but will also grow and deepen” stated the Defender.
Ms. Manasyan addressed that
to change approaches, serious will and a clear methodology are needed.
"Firstly, the education
system must be fundamentally reformed, including in higher education
institutions. Stereotypical approaches are primarily disseminated through the
education system and the existing environment in these institutions" stated
the Defender.
Ms. Tatevik Stepanyan,
Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Affairs and Mrs. Madeleine Rauschenberger,
Country Director of the Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and
Development (GIZ), also delivered a welcoming speech. Representatives of
international organizations, government agencies, civil society, and
ambassadors also participated in the event.
A panel discussion was also
held as part of the FAST program opening event, within the framework of which
reference was made to feminist development and to global actions aimed at
gender equality and ways to achieve gender justice in Armenia.
Հայերեն
