Human Rights Defender Requests Clarifications from Armenian State Bodies

The Office of the Human Rights Defender has initiated a discussion procedure regarding the legality of freeing media outlets operating in Yerevan from spaces provided by the state free of charge, considering the impact on media operations.

Reports have surfaced in the media indicating that, per a decision by the Mayor of Yerevan, media outlets located at 1/3 Bouzandi Street in the capital have received notifications about the unjustified liberation of the areas they occupy under free use agreements.

Similar notifications have also been sent to media outlets at 2 Arshakunyats Avenue and 28 Isahakyan Street from the Committee for State Property Management, which is under the Ministry of Economic Development and Investments.

Recognizing that the guarantee of freedom of expression and the protection of journalistic activities are of paramount importance to the Human Rights Defender, Arman Tatoyan has requested clarifications from the Mayor of Yerevan and the Minister of Economic Development and Investments, posing specific questions.