Armenian lawyer criticizes human rights defender for 'theoretical statements'

Lawyer Sos Hakobyan has criticized Armenian Human Rights Defender Anahit Manasyan, arguing that her role is not to deliver theoretical commentary or provide instructional explanations of legislation, but to clearly assess rights violations.

Hakobyan, a member of the Homeland Party, said in a statement on Thursday that the ombudsperson should offer evaluations on whether authorities are infringing upon citizens’ religious freedoms or the autonomy of religious organizations.

“The human rights defender’s role is not to engage in theoretical reasoning, particularly through educational statements explaining the content of normative acts,” Hakobyan said.

He emphasized that Armenia’s constitutional and legal provisions are publicly accessible and can be reviewed by citizens or clarified through professional legal consultation when necessary.

According to Hakobyan, the ombudsperson should explicitly state whether the country’s political leadership is violating fundamental rights, including freedom of religion. He said that her office should document and identify the relevant facts and the public officials involved.

“Anything else simply doesn't meet the legal requirements,” Hakobyan added.