Armenia Citizens who Report Abuse in Army are Not Protected: Hammarberg

Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights Thomas Hammarberg addressed incidents over the past year in Armenia’s armed forces during a press conference live tweeted by Epress.am in Yerevan, Armenia.

Hammarberg expressed concern over the non-combat deaths, and cases of ill treatment and humiliation (hazing), stressing the need for thorough investigation and revealing and punishing those guilty. The Commissioner for Human Rights encouraged reforms in the army, including effective disciplinary procedures and mechanisms for appeal.

“It is important to exclude any cases of impunity,” he said.

Thomas Hammarberg placed importance on the fact that those who report incidents of abuse or rights violations (in the army and elsewhere) are not protected, which is a reason why some may fear to take action.

“We know from experience in other countries, there is a risk that officials in the army will protect one another,” he said, adding in particular when and if cases are taken to court.