On August 29, the RA Human Rights Defender Arman Tatoyan had a meeting with the Chairman of the RA National Assembly Ara Babloyan. Earlier, the NA Chairman proposed the meeting through the statement on the country's internal political situation.
The head of the legislature body informed the Human Rights Defender that during his meetings with the Prime Minister Mr. Nikol Pashinyan and the President Mr. Armen Sargsyan the parties highlighted the supremacy of the Constitution, emphasized that all measures taken to solve problems should be in line with democratic standards, and should be in the framework of political dialogue, negotiations and discussions.
During the meeting, the Ombudsman presented his below position, regarding the issues raised by the NA Chairman of the National Assembly:
• Any procedure, taking place in the country, should be based on the rule of law. Human rights should be the basis for every initiative;
• Freedom of speech is one of the key indicators of democratic development of the country. We all hold the responsibility to protect this high value. This is directly linked to the promotion of pluralism: currently it is especially necessary for our country;
• The Human Rights Defender initiated a comprehensive study of international experience and standards on transitional justice bodies. It will be summarized taking into account concrete proposals of the Government. One thing is clear: any new body should comply with Armenia's international commitments and should be based on the Constitution and laws by having high commitment to human rights protection and a mission to contribute to the effectiveness of the current bodies at its core;
• With respect to courts, it is necessary to take into account that the state power is exercised on the basis of separation and balance of power between the legislative, executive and judicial branches. This, in turn, implies the independence of the judiciary from the legislative and executive powers, as well as from any other body or person outside of them. The solution to the existing problems must be pursued consistently, including by hard but exclusively legal means;
• The continuous development of the human rights protection system should be ensured, excluding a retreat from the achievements made. The Human Rights Defender, being guided by the fundamental principles of apolitical and impartial work, will continue to take maximum efforts, including supporting the Government in its initiatives directed to the above-mentioned aim;
• All issues should be discussed and resolved within solidarity and dialogue.