Statement by H.E. Mr. Paruyr Hovhannisyan, Permanent Representative of Armenia to the UN, at the High-Level Meeting on the Overall Review of the Implementation of the Outcomes of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS+20)

16 December, 2025

Mr. President,

Armenia aligns with the statement delivered by the European Union, and I will add a few remarks in my national capacity.

I would like to welcome the finalization of the Outcome Document and commend the efforts of our Albanian and Kenyan colleagues.

In the era of rapid technological transformation, including the rise of artificial intelligence, and amid emerging opportunities and challenges in the information domain - notably hybrid information manipulation and disinformation — international cooperation to bridge existing digital gaps and strengthen ICT partnerships is essential.

Inclusive and rights-based policies should be at the core of the conception, design, development and use of digital technologies. ICTs must strengthen our joint commitment to promoting just, peaceful and inclusive societies, advancing peace and security, human rights and sustainable development.

Armenia strongly believes that international human rights law is equally applicable online and offline. In this regard, we welcome the Outcome Document’s recognition of the risks related to the misuse of digital technologies, including unlawful surveillance, violations of privacy, online hate speech and incitement to violence.

Mr. President,

The ICT sector in Armenia has grown by 20 percent. Notably, women’s participation in ICT and innovative start-ups exceeds 40 percent, compared to the global average of 20 percent.

As a strong proponent of multistakeholder partnerships, Armenia joined the Freedom Online Coalition one year ago to contribute to protecting freedom online through shared experiences and dialogue.

Since April 2025, Armenia’s Ministry of High -Tech Industry, in cooperation with UNICEF and the Izmirlian Charitable Foundation, has implemented initiatives to protect children’s rights and promote digital literacy and safety, including the development of a Roadmap on Children’s Online Safety.

In conclusion, Armenia stands ready to engage with partners, share its experience and contribute constructively in the information domain.

I thank you.

MFA RA
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