OSCE organizes workshop on international standards on sanctioning investigative measures for Armenian judges

YEREVAN, 9 June 2009 - A two-day training workshop that supported Armenian judges' efforts to adhere to European standards when they sanction operative and investigative measures ended today in Yerevan.

Judges of first instance, Appeal and Cassation courts took part in the course, organized by the OSCE Office in Yerevan in co-operation with the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) and the Judicial School of Armenia.

"The course provided expert advice and examples of best practices on procedural safeguards to minimize the possibilities for arbitrary and uncontrolled use of investigative measures," said Carel Hofstra, Deputy Head of the OSCE Office in Yerevan.

International experts discussed international standards, including those adopted by the Council of Europe, on liberty and security of persons and protection of private life, home and correspondence. National experts presented domestic legislation and judicial practice in implementing national laws in the context of European human rights standards.

"The topic of the workshop was indeed timely and significant," said Davit Avetisyan, Chairman of the Criminal Chamber of the Cassation Court. "International expertise helps Armenia to better implement legislation in compliance with international standards and find solutions through legislative initiatives."

Arman Vardanyan, Head of the Judicial School, added: "Best practices in this field are beneficial for the everyday work of the judges, and the workshop's topics effectively addressed various aspects of sanctioning investigative measures."

The OSCE Office in Yerevan and ODIHR support Armenian judicial reforms, which aim to improve overall access to justice and strengthen the independence of the judiciary.