OSCE report calls for improved witness protection in Armenia

YEREVAN, 18 October 2011 – International standards for the protection of witnesses, procedural measures during investigation and adjudication processes, and practical recommendations for improvement of witness protection are in the subject of an OSCE-supported report presented today in Yerevan.

The study provides a thorough analysis of national legislative arrangements in the light of international standards and the European Court on Human Rights case-law, and provide an overview of its practical implementation. It was prepared by the Helsinki Citizens’ Assembly Vanadzor Office with the support of the OSCE Office in Yerevan.

“The ability of a witness to give testimony or to co-operate with law enforcement bodies without fear of intimidation is essential to maintaining the rule of law,” said Vladimir Tchountoulov, the Human Rights Programme Officer of the OSCE Office in Yerevan. “It is an essential factor for ensuring effective investigation and prosecution of crimes”.

Artur Sakunts, the Chairman of the Helsinki Citizens’ Assembly Vanadzor Office added: "There is a need to pay more attention to the conditions of witnesses in Armenia, their protection, as well as to make sure that their rights are properly respected. This study helps to reveal the existing problems in this area. Improving the witness protection system in Armenia will raise witnesses’ trust in criminal justice system and hence will help prevent cases of human rights violations and corruption”.

The report’s recommendations include enabling witnesses with limited financial resources to make use of the services of the public defender during the preliminary investigation, widening the scope of the application of witness protection measures when necessary, and registering witnesses’ visits to investigative departments.

The recommendations drew on the findings of a survey of investigators and advocates as well as an analysis of relevant cases handled by the advocates. On-site visits to police stations in Shirak, Lori and Tavush regions of Armenia were also conducted to observe the adherence to procedural rights.

The electronic version of the report is available at //www.osce.org/hy/yerevan/83916

For more information please contact Ms. Gohar Avagyan, National Public Information Officer, OSCE Office in Yerevan, at (+374 10) 22 96 10/ 11/12/13/14 ext. 5406, cell (091) 436389.