Armenian justice minister defends IMEI registry as anti-smuggling measure

Armenian Justice Minister Srbuhi Galyan on Tuesday defended a government initiative to create a centralized database of mobile phone IMEI codes, stressing that the measure is designed to combat contraband rather than expand state monitoring of citizens.

“The purpose of the project is not to place anyone under control, but to block the unauthorized import of mobile phones into Armenia,” Galyan told reporters after the cabinet endorsed the plan.

Civil society groups and media professionals have raised concerns that the system could be misused for surveillance. Galyan countered that the government is simultaneously drafting new legislation on personal data protection to ensure privacy safeguards. “I believe all concerns should be dispelled,” she said.