New Justice Minister Proposes Reforms in Armenia’s Justice System

Construction of new penal institutions, public services from a single window, no misuse of imprisonment as a measure of restraint, introduction of a probation system, and electronic court applications — these are the priorities in the government's program concerning the justice system, said newly appointed RA Minister of Justice Hovhannes Manukyan (pictured) in Armenia's National Assembly today. 

"First, the government considers reform of the justice system important. It's no secret that the court lacks confidence. There will be optimization and greater professionalization of judges. The option of applying to court electronically must be made possible. We must pay attention to the institute of the public defender. Our challenge is to make public defenders available in the regions. We need to expand the range of alternative measures of restraint. 28% of detainees are suspects, against whom there is yet no verdict. The Code of Criminal Procedure must answer to this. Reforms in the conditions of penal institutions are important — the conditions of housing imprisoned persons should comply with international standards. New penal institutions will be opened — to alleviate congestion [in prisons]. Introduced will be a probation service — to prevent repeat offenses and to assist in the future integration of convicts," he said.