Armenia’s Ombudsman creates task force to observe snap elections

Armenian Human Rights Defender (Ombudsman) Arman Tatoyan has set up a task force that will carry out an independent observation of the upcoming snap parliamentary elections.

The group includes experts both from the headquarters and regional subdivisions of the Ombudsman’s Office. 

The task force is responsible for monitoring alleged violations of electoral rights reported by media outlets, as well as for ensuring proper examination of oral and written complaints during the campaigning and on the election day.

The group is also responsible for receiving citizens, providing legal assistance to them and carrying out rapid reaction visits, the Human Rights Defender’s Office told Panorama.am.

Among the key tasks of the group is to closely cooperate with competent state bodies, including the Central Electoral Commission and the local and international organizations carrying out an election observation mission in Armenia.

It has also been tasked to closely cooperate with civil society organizations and mass media involved in electoral processes. The task force will pay special attention to the issues related to the rights of journalist and observers.

The early parliamentary elections are scheduled for 9 December in Armenia, with the election campaign to launch on 26 November.