The UN Working Group studied the situation of the rights of women and girls in Armenia

The UN Working Group on Discrimination against Women and Girls carried out data collection and a ten-day visit to Armenia with the aim of assessing the overall situation of the rights of women and girls in the country. During the visit, the group held meetings with state institutions, civil society organizations, human rights defenders, as well as other stakeholders. 

During the discussions, particular attention was paid to existing mechanisms for the protection of women’s rights, manifestations of discrimination, and gaps in the legal framework. The Working Group also met with representatives of the “Pink” Human Rights Defender NGO, who presented the situation of the rights of LBTQ+ women and girls in Armenia, highlighting the multifaceted issues present in the field. 

In the summary statement published on March 25, the experts called for ensuring a safer and more enabling environment for women and girls human rights defenders, activists, journalists, and politicians, emphasizing that they should be able to participate in public life free from intimidation, hate speech, and violence, both online and offline. 

The statement also made specific reference to the situation of LBTQ+ women and girls in Armenia. According to the experts, they face multiple forms of discrimination, shaped by deeply rooted gender stereotypes, societal stigma, and gaps in legal protection. According to civil society organizations, various violations are recorded, including hate-motivated violence, discrimination in housing, employment, and education, as well as domestic violence and sexual violence. 

The experts note that the situation is compounded by widespread mistrust toward law enforcement bodies, which is a result of misclassification of cases and inadequate state response. 

The Working Group also emphasized the need to adopt a comprehensive anti-discrimination law that will ensure effective protection for all groups, including vulnerable communities, and will strengthen the human rights protection system in Armenia. 

In conclusion, the UN experts highlighted the importance of systemic reforms aimed at the full realization of the rights of women and girls and overcoming all forms of discrimination in the country.