The
Human Rights Defender of the Republic of Armenia, Ms. Anahit Manasyan
participated as a speaker in the dialogue-discussion held within the framework
of the “Support to Women’s Empowerment and Economic Independence” project.
The
event was initiated by the “Progressive Youth of Armenia” NGO with the support
of the Council of Europe, as part of the project “Ending violence against women
and promoting gender equality in Armenia”. The meeting was attended by women
representing displaced and various vulnerable groups.
In
her speech, Ms. Anahit Manasyan emphasized the importance of events of this
format in terms of making the voices of various vulnerable groups heard and
raising sensitive issues.
“These
kinds of events are very important. Participation and publicization help people
facing various challenges understand that they are not alone. We must stand
together, ready to understand each other’s problems and support each other.”
Ms.
Anahit Manasyan emphasized that one of the important directions of her activity
is the protection of the rights of women and vulnerable groups. According to
her, it is necessary to build a harmonious society, where people are not only
tolerant of each other's peculiarities, but also supportive.
"By
our example, we must show that regardless of the peculiarities of each of us,
the attitude towards everyone should be dignified, equal, harmonious and
respectful."
During
the discussion, the Defender also outlined her activity priorities, placing
special focus on the protection of the rights of displaced persons, the
importance of psychosocial support, and ensuring equality before the law.
Ms.
Anahit Manasyan noted that many problems are systemic—for example, those
affecting persons with disabilities—but they become doubly challenging in the
context of displacement. Moreover, in many cases, even public perceptions
regarding these problems are distorted.
Through
my own example, I try to demonstrate that we must not be afraid of raising
sensitive issues. They must be recognized, addressed properly, and appropriate
ways to resolve them must be found," the Human Rights Defender concluded.
Participants
also had the opportunity to raise their concerns and questions with the
Defender in a Q&A format.