Armenia - IDAHOTB 2018 Country Page ~ may17.org

Foreign embassies in Armenia celebrated IDAHOT
On 17th of May, the Embassy of Argentina in Armenia hosted PINK Armenia’s President Nvard Margaryan and Executive Director Mamikon Hovsepyan on the occasion of International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia. They took part in the raising of the rainbow flag symbolizing LGBT people on the embassy building.
The Ambassador of Argentina in Armenia Gonzalo Urriolabeitia has expressed solidarity with LGBT people, saying: “The rights of the LGBTI people are human rights, and the human rights are the rights of LGBTI people. On the occasion of May 17th, International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, the Embassy of the Argentine Republic in Armenia ratifies its commitment to human rights and diversity, reaffirming the equal rights of all people and the fight against all the forms of discrimination, racism and xenophobia. Likewise, it is in solidarity with civil society organizations, which work around the world to demand the fundamental freedoms of LGBTI people to live in a dignified and free way. Therefore, the Embassy of Argentina in Armenia lifts up the rainbow flag commemorating this day.”
The Embassy of Germany in Armenia also addressed the day by posting a rainbow flag image on their Facebook page and by sharing the statement of Ambassador Botschafter Matthias Kiesler.
“Today is the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia. The federal government is committed to fight the discrimination against LGBTI people in the world. Human rights include the right to freedom of sexual orientation. The path of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex people’s equality was long and challenging in Germany. The equality of rights was not only defined through legal framework but also it has enriched our society. My gratitude to all those people who promote tolerance and fight against discrimination.”
On 16th of May, the British Ambassador to Armenia Judith Farnworth hosted LGBT activists, and on 17th of May made a statement calling upon to respect the human rights of LGBT people, saying: “The strongest, safest and most prosperous societies are those in which all citizens can live freely, without fear of violence or discrimination, and where all citizens, including LGBT people, can play a full and active part in society. Every person should have a fair opportunity in life. No one should face discrimination through unfair laws, policies and practices. No one should be subjected to hate speech, violence or harassment based on discrimination. Representatives from minority groups should have equal opportunities to participate in political and public life, including in positions of leadership and influence. ”
The US Embassy also joined the cause by posting the rainbow flag picture as a cover photo on Embassy’s Facebook page.

Joint EU-Armenia press release on the 9th Human Rights Dialogue

On 16 May 2018, the EU and Armenia held the 9th round of their regular Human Rights Dialogue in Yerevan. This was the first EU-Armenia regular meeting following the election of the new Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia.
The EU and Armenia reiterated their commitment to the common values of democracy, the rule of law and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. These values underpin the EU-Armenia Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement signed on 24 November 2017 and unanimously ratified by the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia on 11 April. The EU confirmed its readiness to work together with the new Armenian Government and to offer its support in these crucial areas.
The EU and Armenia discussed, inter alia, electoral reform, freedom of assembly and freedom of expression and gender equality, as well as labour rights. On electoral reform, the EU recommended amending the legislation bringing it in line with international recommendations and commitments undertaken by the Republic of Armenia prior to the early elections.
It was stressed by both sides that freedom of assembly is a universal and fundamental right of all. The EU welcomed the peaceful nature of recent protests and the general restraint shown by all sides, and inquired about the status of those who had been detained. The Dialogue highlighted the importance of a free and pluralistic media environment and political pluralism as a prerequisite for the conduct of democratic elections.
Armenia reconfirmed its commitment to the adoption of a comprehensive anti-discrimination law in line with international standards and to establishing a national equality body under the Human Rights Defender’s office. The Armenian Government will hold interactive public hearings with civil society organisations to ensure effective implementation of the National Human Rights Action Plan. In the area of labour rights, Armenia indicated that it planned to reform the system of labour inspection to comply with international standards, including with regard to working time, wages and workers’ rights.
The dialogue allowed for an open, constructive exchange on the human rights situation in Armenia. In line with its policy, the EU had prior to the dialogue met and consulted representatives of Armenian and international civil society. The meeting resulted in operational conclusions with concrete actions that will be monitored and followed up over the next year.
The EU reconfirmed its readiness to provide financial and technical support to Armenia, necessary for continuing the reforms aimed at further strengthening democratic institutions and human rights.
The Armenian delegation was headed by Mr. Garen Nazarian, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, while the EU delegation was led by Mr. Dirk Schuebel, Head of Division for bilateral relations with Eastern Partnership countries at the European External Action Service.

Armenia – IDAHOTB 2018 Country Page

Armenia – IDAHOTB 2018 Country Page

Philippines - IDAHOTB 2018 Country Page

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