Epress.am News from Armenia
The “Coalition to Stop Violence against Women” is demanding the Armenian government to accept the “Prevention of Domestic Violence” law.
The Coalition members sent a letter to Prime Minister Hovik Abrahamyan to remind the government about the development and discussion of the preliminary law, “About Domestic Violence.” The draft law was looked over multiple times by international and national experts, and on September 2009, it was presented to the Ministry of Labor and Social Issues. On November 12, 2010, the draft law was presented to the government for further discussion. The draft law’s new amended form, due to its multiple discussions, was presented to the Prime Minister on November 28, 2012 for approval.
However, in February 11, 2013, the Ministry of Labor and Social Issues received the government’s decision, which found that passing the law was not appropriate and the government decided to instead disperse content from the law into other laws.
“In 2013, the Coalition to Stop Violence against Women experts, which consist of lawyers and practitioners, has amended the law “About Domestic Violence” in complying with the Ministry of Justice’s considerations. Presently, the amended “Prevention of Domestic Violence” law is ready to be presented to the National Assembly”
On this occasion, we call for the government to take concrete steps and undertake the implementation of its responsibilities, which are expressed through the “Against Gender-based Violence” national initiative and a long list of Armenian ratified international documents. By prioritizing the “Prevention of Domestic Violence” law, we demand that it be accepted and expect your (PM) involvement in this issue. We also expect your immediate help on the occasion of the proclaimed “The National Day to fight Domestic Violence,” on October 1st,” said the letter directed to the Prime Minister.