OSCE HELPS ARMENIA FIGHT CORRUPTION
news.am
April 23 2010
Armenia
April 23, an OSCE-supported project aimed at fighting corruption
related to traffic regulation by monitoring traffic registrations and
drivers’ license examinations concluded with a presentation in Yerevan.
The project, implemented by non-governmental organization Achilles
with support from the OSCE Office in Yerevan, included monitoring of
the testing procedures for obtaining drivers licenses at the Police
Registration and Examination Departments, Yerevan OSCE office informed
NEWS.am. It also included activities to inform drivers about their
rights through television and radio programs and the distribution of
information materials as well as legal consultations that promoted
procedural and systemic traffic regulation reforms.
"Apart from our work with the Government in addressing corruption
we attach great importance to supporting civil society in raising
awareness about corruption and corruption risks" said Carel Hofstra,
Acting Head of the OSCE office in Yerevan. "The project results that we
are discussing today are especially timely considering that improving
the work of the traffic police is part of Armenia’s anti-corruption
strategy as well as the police reform program, both recently adopted
by the Government," he added.
"This project will result in recommendations for procedure changes
and legislation amendments that will reduce the risk for corruption
and improve the safety on Armenia’s roads by ensuring that those who
obtain drivers’ licenses have sufficient driving skills," stated Edik
Hovhannisyan, Head of the Achilles NGO.
The project, which lasted almost eight months, formed part of the
OSCE Office’s work to strengthening the effectiveness of Armenia’s
fight against corruption.