The UN Human Rights Committee recommends Armenia to fight discrimination and violence on the grounds of SOGI

The UN Human Rights Committee has summed up the third reporting period on the human rights situation in Armenia. In its concluding observations, the Committee presented some recommendations to the State on steps to combat systemic human rights violations. As an anti-discrimination measure, the Committee proposes that the Criminal Code provide for the prohibition of discrimination and hate crimes, defining them explicitly, including sexual orientation and gender identity as protected characteristics. The Committee also expressed its concern about the effectiveness of investigation and liability for cases of violence against LGBT people, proposing to insure protection against discrimination and violence based on sexual orientation and gender identity not only through legislation but also in practice. The Committee is also concerned about the impunity of homophobic and transphobic rhetoric by politicians and public figures, proposing to combat such discourse, including through trainings with law enforcement agencies and public awareness campaigns.