I hosted the delegation led by Ms. Merle Spellerberg, member of German Bundestag in the parliament.
I introduced my colleagues to the difficult situation in the two Armenian republics, in particular the threats to Armenia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, the humanitarian crisis in Artsakh, the imperative of ensuring the security of Armenians of Artsakh and recognition of their right to self-determination.
We discussed the human rights situation in Armenia.
I informed that women involved in political processes are being targeted, force is clearly used against women politicians even in the legislative body when they carry out parliamentary activities according to their conscience and convictions.
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In this context, I referred to the incidents that happened with me and MP Anna Mkrtchyan, introducing the details of unacceptable and reprehensible behavior by the security personnel.
In response to Merle Spellerberg’s question regarding the ratification of the Istanbul Convention, I emphasized that the Armenian Apostolic Church has fundamental disagreements with the provisions of the convention and urged to refrain from ratifying the document.
I also introduced my colleague to the alarms of the use of force against lawyers and minors, informing that our lawyers were on strike, reminding us about the role and significance of advocacy, the most important institution of our society.
I also presented the problems of the independent judicial system, the alarms for the dismissal of judges who do not comply with orders of political authorities, in connection with which Merle Spellerberg expressed hope that the independent judicial system in Armenia will develop and the problems will be solved.
Turning to the field of environmental protection, I raised the alarm about toxic emissions to settlements and mentioned that although the current government of Armenia used to criticize the operation of mines in terms of environmental protection, now they have become the shareholders of the largest mine.
At the meeting, we emphasized our willingness to deepen cooperation for the benefit of the protection of human rights.
Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Protection of Human Rights and Public Affairs, nonpartisan Taguhi Tovmasyan