US Department of State 2022 report on LGBT+ human rights in Armenia
26-03-2023
The human rights annual report recently published by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor has shed light on the current state of human rights in Armenia. Among the significant human rights issues that were highlighted in the report, the situation of LGBT+ people in Armenia stood out as a matter of concern.
The report notes that LGBT+ people in Armenia face restrictions on their freedom of expression and are often subjected to violence and threats of violence. Discrimination against LGBT+ people are rampant, and they are repeatedly denied access to essential services such as healthcare and education. Additionally, Armenian law does not provide legal gender recognition.
This hostile environment has forced many LGBT+ people to live a secret life, often leading to isolation and mental health issues. As a result, many LGBT+ people in Armenia feel compelled to leave the country in search of a more accepting environment.
NGOs continue to express concerns regarding prison conditions in Armenia. The lack of sufficient psychological services in prisons is contributing to an increase in the number of suicides, cases of self-harm, and hunger strikes.
The report raises concerns about the human rights situation of LGBT+ people in Armenian prisons and detention centers. There are issues related to physical conditions, access to healthcare and psychological support, and treatment of LGBT+ persons. Despite government efforts to renovate prison facilities, degrading conditions, including a lack of air ventilation and cooling systems, remain an issue.
The situation of LGBT+ people in Armenia is a critical human rights issue that requires urgent attention and action. The Armenian government must take concrete steps to ensure that the rights of LGBT+ people are protected and that they can live free from discrimination and violence. We encourage and highly appreciate the international community’s continued support in creating equal rights for all people.
