Importance attached to bringing the treatment of persons deprived of liberty into compliance with international standards

Deputy Minister of Justice Gevorg Kocharyan delivered an opening speech during the workshop entitled "International Standards for Treatment of Women in the Conditions of Imprisonment and Probation". Gevorg Kocharyan stated that the Republic of Armenia, adhering to the principles of supremacy of human rights and comprehensive justice, is consistently taking steps to bring the treatment of persons deprived of liberty into compliance with international standards.

In particular, in recent years, various steps have been taken to improve the prison and probation conditions for women, taking into consideration their specific needs. The Deputy Minister stated that during imprisonment, women face issues that require a special approach — physical and mental health issues, protection of the rights of pregnant women, non-discrimination, etc. Gevorg Kocharyan expressed gratitude for the discussion and attached importance to the steady and ongoing co-operation with the European Union.

The technical assistance from the European side, the professional experience essentially contribute to the systemic reforms, particularly in matters that require a special approach and introduction of international best practices. The European Union provides high-level support for development of the penitentiary and probation systems. The discussion was organised within the framework of the "Support to Justice Reform in Armenia" Project.