OSCE promotes freedom of assembly in Armenia
Some 50 representatives from political parties, municipalities and judges participated in three workshops on freedom of assembly organized by the OSCE Office in Yerevan from 20 to 22 June.
The workshops raised awareness and understanding of the recently adopted Law on Freedom of Assembly with the aim of promoting good practices and compliance with the law. Respect of the law is especially important in view of the upcoming parliamentary and presidential elections in Armenia in 2012 and 2013 respectively.
In addition to legal changes, the participants discussed controversial situations and possible solutions and the roles and rights of those involved. The workshops also covered international standards in the field, good practices and problems and recent cases from the European Court of Human Rights.
The OSCE Office in Yerevan has been closely following developments related to freedom of assembly in Armenia and monitors its practical implementation. The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights and the Venice Commission of the Council of Europe provided expertise on the draft Law on Freedom of Assembly on a number of occasions. The current Law was adopted in April 2011.