Armenia’s amended law on NGOs to promote civil society development – EU ambassador

A conference on Armenia’s Law on NGOs co-organized by Armenia’s Ministry of Justice with the European Union’s sponsorship within the framework of ''Support to Democratic Governance in Armenia'' project.

Among the participants in the conference were Armenia’s Minister of Justice Hovhannes Manukyan, Head of the EU Delegation to Armenia Traian Hristea and Director of the British Council Armenia Arevik Saribekyan, officials, representatives of international organizations and civil society.

Armenia’s government attaches importance to public hearing of the law on NGOs and is well aware of the need for reforms. On the other hand, the government is aware of the need for balanced approaches as Armenia’s civil society is sensitive and is in the making.

Mr Hristea welcomed the public hearing and pointed out a satisfactory level of cooperation with NGOs. The concept had been discussed with the general public before the relevant bill was drafted, he said.

He called on the participants in the conference to make their proposals for a comprehensive document to be drafted.

The project envisages a number of reforms supposed to promote the development of civil society, particularly in the context of financial stability. On the other hand, the expert opinion indicates faults. Mr Hristea hopes that the problems will be resolved during the discussions.