“Human Rights Watch plays a vital role in protection of the rights of children, women and other vulnerable groups in Armenia. We attached significance to your analyses and studies, particularly those that concern deinstitutionalization, inclusive education, and children in state care. Their importance is such that we include them in the basis of our future policies,” said Zaruhi Batoyan.

According to her, the ministry is especially “determined” to prevent domestic violence and violence against women. Zaruhi Batoryan has highlighted the importance of cooperation with international organizations in this regard.

She has also pointed out that recently the Armenian government approved a draft law, submitted by the Ministry of Labor, which launches two key processes: establishment of requirements to the shelters for domestic violence survivors and the shelter staff, and provision of financial aid to the survivors. “We believe that a traditional Armenian family is built on love and respect, and the state must support families that find themselves in a difficult situation,” added Zaruhi Batoyan.

“We might not share the same views on every issue sometimes, but the understanding that our common goal is to protect human rights is unchanging. We hope that our further cooperation will remain on the same foundation,” said Rachel Denber.