CoE Promoting Freedom of Expression, Media and Access to Information in Armenia project launched
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The Council of Europe fully supports Armenia’s comprehensive agenda for media reforms and the ongoing initiatives aimed at strengthening freedom of expression and combating threats to democracy, Maxime Longangué, Head of the Council of Europe’s Yerevan Office, said during the launch event of the “Promoting Freedom of Expression, Media and Access to Information in Armenia” program.
“Since joining the Council of Europe, Armenia has made significant progress in improving its legislative framework. The country has also reaffirmed its commitment to the Council of Europe’s official documents,” said Longangué.
At the same time, he noted that challenges related to disinformation continue to disrupt the public media space. Longangué described the newly launched program as long-awaited and timely.
He added that the principles enshrined in Council of Europe documents are closely linked to strengthening media freedom and increasing resilience in the current environment.
“Armenia is preparing for parliamentary elections this year. The country is likely—or already has become—a more attractive target for information manipulation and other hybrid threats. Armenia has experience in addressing such challenges and has, over time, developed a certain level of resilience. As a 25-year member of the Council of Europe, Armenia has consistently demonstrated a genuine commitment to democracy and human rights. These are not abstract principles, but practical standards guiding policies, reforms, and institutional practices,” Longangué said.
He emphasized that the new program will focus on increasing media literacy and preserving informational integrity, while developing media capacities to ensure responsible and professional election coverage.
He also highlighted the importance of providing the public with accurate information, which is a prerequisite for free and fair elections. In this regard, Longangué stressed the importance of cooperation, emphasizing the role of civil society.
“To tackle these challenges, a comprehensive approach is necessary. Only through such an approach can we create a conducive environment. On behalf of the Council of Europe, I reaffirm that we fully support Armenia’s comprehensive agenda for media reforms and the ongoing initiatives aimed at strengthening freedom of expression and combating threats to democracy,” Longangué emphasized.
At the launch event of the “Promoting Freedom of Expression, Media and Access to Information in Armenia” program, the objectives, planned actions, and expected outcomes were presented, along with discussions of the next steps with partners and stakeholders.
The event brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from government bodies, media outlets, and civil society organizations.