Human rights are violated in all spheres in Armenia, says activist

There is no single agency in Armenia where one would not encounter encroachments on human rights, a human rights activist has said.

In a press conference today, Arthur Sakunts, the head of the Helsinki Citizens Assembly of Vanadzor, said that those who violate human rights in Armenia are protected and sponsored by law enforcement or judicial bodies.

"There is no agency in our country where people's rights are not violated," said Sakunts.

"Those who violate [human rights] get the protection and sponsorship of law enforcement or judicial bodies, said he, adding that nor is there respect for human rights in Armenia.

Among other human rights violations in the country, Sakunts pointed to the existence of political prisoners, torture by the police, as well as non-combat killings of soldiers in Armenia's military.

This year alone, 42 soldiers have been killed in the army, he added.

Rustam Makhmudyan, advisor to Armenia's Human Rights Defender , also present at the press conference, said that the Ombudsman's Office has received 4,000 complaints during the year.

Most of the people complain about the police, Yerevan's Municipality, judicial bodies, as well about social issues.

He also said that the Human Rights' Defender should not be expected to solve all the problems.

"In the process of restoring these rights, we all should be unified," said Makhmudyan.