Aarhus network

Based on the OSCE comprehensive concept of co-operation and security, the Office continues to support the Government in its efforts to set up and operate Public Environmental Information Centres (Aarhus Centres), thus to contribute to the implementation of the UNECE Convention on Access to Information, Public Participation in Decision-making and Access to Justice in Environmental Matters (Aarhus Convention). 

The implementation of the Convention leads to development of an open administrative culture, which supports public participation and transparency in environmental matters and values them as positive contributions to democratic, effective and good governance. The Office supports the activities of fourteen Aarhus Centers and together with the Ministry of Nature Protection works on further strengthening the centers' capacities and network (www.aarhus.am). To promote the third pillar of the Aarhus Convention and environmental legislation a Centre on Environmental Rights at Yerevan State University was established in 2008.

Environment and Security Initiative

The Office also assists the National component of the Environment and Security Initiative (EnvSec). The initiative aims to provide a framework for co-operation between neighboring states on security-related environmental issues. Together with the ENVSEC partner organizations and the OSCE Secretariat the Office organizes meetings and other activities to promote regional environmental cooperation.