Helsinki Citizens’ Assembly-Vanadzor

We strongly condemn the act of apprehending human rights activist Avetik Ishkhanyan, Chairman of Helsinki Committee of Armenia, to a police department and assess such a treatment as a step taken to restrict human rights protection activity and gross violation of the obligations undertaken by the state to safeguard human rights and human rights protection activity. 

In their actions aimed at ensuring public order and stability, the authorities must act guided by the principle of the rule of law, especially given this tense situation. 

We demand the immediate cessation of the unlawful prosecution against A. Ishkhanyan and his release. 

Helsinki Citizens' Assembly-Vanadzor

25.11.2020