Statement by the Delegation of Armenia, Ms. Sofya Margaryan, Counsellor, at the High-level meeting to mark the twenty-fifth anniversary of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

25 November, 2024

Mr. President,

Violence against women remains one of the most pervasive violations of human rights, with impacts that extend far beyond the immediate physical harm, eroding the very foundations of societies. Countering this problem is never easy, as it requires profound societal transformation and steadfast commitment from all levels of society.

In Armenia, this process continues to involve efforts on multiple fronts, including critical legislative reforms alongside initiatives to raise awareness to shift societal perceptions. The legislative changes enacted in recent years have strengthened protections for victims and enhanced mechanisms for reporting and responding to cases of gender-based violence. The amended legal framework now addresses economic, physical, sexual, and psychological violence and criminalizes acts such as coercion (to marriage or abortion, for example), whereby crimes committed by partners or ex-partners are now recognized as aggravating circumstances, resulting in stricter penalties. Earlier this year, Armenia reaffirmed its strong commitment to eradicating child, early, and forced marriages by enacting legislation that set the minimum marriage age at 18 without exceptions.

Preventing gender-based violence necessitates robust economic empowerment and resilience-building initiatives that address the underlying vulnerabilities faced by women. Since 2020, Armenia has integrated gender-sensitive budgeting, prioritizing the specific needs of women and allocating resources to establish support centers, co-finance shelters, and provide financial assistance to victims. Additionally, efforts focus on skills development, employability, and childcare support. Collaborative efforts are underway to provide training for law enforcement and social services, to better assist educators, as well as to engage men and boys in meaningful conversations on positive parenting and on measures to combat gender-based violence.

Data collection is an essential component of countering gender-based violence, as it provides the foundation for informed and effective responses. To this end, together with UNFPA, Armenia initiated the development of a digital platform and electronic database for unified and disaggregated domestic violence service data.

Technology and innovation play a transformative role in addressing gender-based violence. Mobile applications, in particular, offer powerful tools in providing secure channels and offering new avenues for protection and support. The SafeYOU app, developed in Armenia with pivotal support from UNFPA, has evolved into a vital virtual safe space, offering secure reporting mechanisms and counseling services in demonstration of the transformative potential of technology.

Countering gender-based violence is central to Armenia’s broader commitment to advancing gender equality, whereby integrated, multidisciplinary efforts are key in addressing the disproportionate challenges faced by women and girls. An important component of this approach is the prevention of trafficking and exploitation, including through tailored programs designed to enhance skills and improve employability.

Having been directly exposed to the devastating impacts of military violence and displacement, Armenia recognizes the critical priority of addressing the intersecting vulnerabilities of women affected by conflict. Armenia is currently developing its Third National Action Plan for the implementation of the UN Security Council Resolution 1325, which seeks to emphasize the critical role of women in conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and peacemaking, with a particular focus on supporting women in border regions.

Despite significant progress, the fight against gender-based violence is far from over, as challenges continue to persist. As we reflect on the milestones achieved over the past twenty-five years, it is crucial to turn focus toward the future. Ensuring that women and girls can live free from fear, follow their dreams, and reach their full potential is a profound responsibility that demands renewed dedication, stronger partnerships, and unwavering efforts to make violence against women a thing of the past.

Thank you.

MFA RA
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