Judge Vardan Grigoryan Creates Artificial Obstacles for Journalists

The judge of the General Jurisdiction Court of Yerevan, Vardan Grigoryan, today, July 4, attempted to obstruct journalists' work during an open court session held at the Avan and Nor Nork administrative division's premises. With 20 years of experience, Grigoryan was disturbed by the journalists recording audio without his permission and without formally introducing themselves.

“I don't understand why you are acting as you wish in the courtroom,” the judge declared.

When a NEWS.am journalist explained that the court session was public and that they were covering it via audio recording, Vardan Grigoryan referred to a decision by the Supreme Judicial Council that sets forth the rules for interaction between courts and the media.

The journalists reminded the judge that according to the SJC decision and existing legislative provisions, they are only required to obtain the judge's permission for video and photography, but the judge insisted they must first introduce themselves and seek permission from the court for audio recording.

Subsequently, the journalists requested to conduct video recording, but the judge unilaterally decided to reject it without hearing the parties' opinions, citing the behavior exhibited by the journalists.

It is noteworthy that Vardan Grigoryan is the only judge who considers it mandatory for journalists to register before court sessions. Journalists must write on paper which media outlet they represent, what they intend to do during the court session, and present this to the mentioned judge's staff. During the court session, Vardan Grigoryan decides how journalists should cover the open court proceedings.