National Day for LGBT+ Human Rights Protection

August 3 marks the 5th annual celebration of National Day for LGBT+ Human Rights Protection. This day is important because it highlights the ongoing struggle for equal rights and protection for LGBT+ people in Armenia. The day remembers an event in 2018, when nine young people, including LGBT+ activists, were attacked by more than 20 people in the Shurnukh community of the Syunik region. They were attacked because of their real or supposed sexual orientation and gender identity. This event led to the creation of National Day for LGBT+ Human Rights Protection.

Pink, as a human rights defender organization, has been actively monitoring the progress of this case, but regrettably, it continues to be neglected by Armenia’s judicial system. The investigation is still ongoing, and the perpetrators have yet to be charged. This situation highlights the critical need to advocate for the protection of LGBT+ rights.

Each year, Pink documents numerous hate crimes and other offenses related to sexual orientation and gender identity. In 2023 alone, 260 people sought legal counseling or support from Pink’s legal team, and 51 cases of human rights violations against LGBT+ individuals were recorded.

Given these challenges, it is crucial to emphasize the long-term fight against discrimination by engaging in various activities. These include discussions and meetings with police, lawmakers, and other state officials, as well as organizing public and online campaigns to raise awareness about LGBT+ issues.

We hope that through this ongoing effort, we can create a society where everyone’s rights are equally protected, and everyone is free, regardless of their sexual orientation and gender identity.