Zaruhi Batoyan Addresses Criticism from Former Employees of the Ministry of Labor and Social Issues

The Minister of Labor and Social Issues, Zaruhi Batoyan, writes:

“On social networks, there are 'harsh comments' or attempts to 'reveal the conditions prevailing in the ministry' from former employees of the ministry or organizations operating within the ministry. I have never responded to these, but it is at least incomprehensible to me when employees of a division with 110 delayed, unresolved, or lost cases within a year believe that they have worked well and that there has been unjust treatment towards them. This concerns dozens of cases regarding children.

It is equally strange for me when individuals who have not reported to work for months or whose recurring statement about their performance is 'I have attended meetings' consider themselves to be at the forefront of reforms. I recommend these individuals take the opportunity to participate in private courses to improve their knowledge in media literacy, language, and computer skills; after all, there is a need for such skills in all fields, whether it be cinema, theater, journalism, or politics.

I won't even mention those who, by virtue of their positions, turned a blind eye to past illegalities or inactions and now present any appointments or reforms as blatant violations or injustices.

For me, two principles are fundamental in working relationships: mutual trust among colleagues and the proper performance of work duties. People who tried to bypass these principles, jeopardizing the normal functioning of the entire system, are no longer working with us.

Every case has undergone internal investigation, all circumstances have been established, and in every case, I repeat—every case—there are clear answers.

By the way, when considering the hiring of former employees of the Ministry of Labor and Social Issues for any position, I suggest consulting their former supervisors. It is possible that they are truly good candidates, and it should not happen that because of my statement, I cast a shadow over someone. After all, people have also left the ministry for various reasons, including personal ones.”