OSCE Office in Yerevan supports study on improving notary services and addressing corruption risks

YEREVAN, 30 June 2010 - An OSCE-supported study on ways to increase the quality of notary services and reduce corruption risks in the sector was presented in Yerevan today.

The report was based on monitoring of notary offices as well as a survey and opinion poll conducted throughout the country. It analyzes both the regulatory framework and practice and addresses citizens' concerns related to procedures, fees and notaries' professionalism.

The recommendations contained in the report are aimed at enhancing transparency and public oversight of notaries, including through improving the appointment procedure of notaries, the creation of a code of ethics and increased capacity of the Chamber of Notaries, and address practical issues such as methods for calculating fees.

"Most people require notary services from time to time, and providing for a transparent and efficient system is an important task of any government. I hope the monitoring results as well as the recommendations based on them will be helpful in improving legislation, procedures and transparency," said the Acting Head of the OSCE Office in Yerevan, Carel Hofstra.

"The study on the public opinion of notary offices is of high importance and the report raises awareness of a number of issues to be addressed in promoting higher quality notary services," said Armenian Vice-Prime Minister Armen Gevorgyan. "We aim to foster co-operation with civil society representatives and the international community to improve the level of public services in Armenia."

Justice Minister Gevorg Danielyan and the Chairwoman of the Chamber of Notaries, Alvard Melkonyan, as well as other representatives of state bodies, civil society, the international community and public notaries took part in the report launch.

The report was prepared by non-governmental organization the Young Lawyers' Association with support from the OSCE Office in Yerevan.