Armenia and EU hold 15th Human Rights Dialogue

The 15th session of the Human Rights Dialogue between Armenia and the European Union was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia.

According to the Foreign Ministry, participants welcomed the steps taken to advance Armenia-EU partnership since the previous dialogue held in February 2025, based on shared principles, including democracy, human rights, fundamental freedoms and the rule of law.

Armenia and the European Union held constructive discussions on a broad range of human rights issues.

Reviewing progress achieved since 2025, the sides exchanged views on recent developments in human rights policy in Armenia and the EU, as well as their respective priorities in the field. They also agreed to continue cooperation on human rights issues within the framework of the Armenia-EU Strategic Partnership Agenda and the implementation of the Visa Liberalisation Action Plan. The sides underlined the importance of promoting equality and combating discrimination.

The European Union noted Armenia’s adoption of the 2025-2028 Gender Equality Strategy and Action Plan on April 23, 2025. The Armenian side briefed the EU on steps being taken to adopt comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation. Both sides stressed the importance of continued efforts to combat domestic and gender-based violence, including violence against LGBTI persons, as well as hate speech and hate crimes. Special attention was paid to people in vulnerable situations, including Armenians displaced from Nagorno-Karabakh.

The European Union reaffirmed its continued support for and assistance with their integration. In the area of children’s rights, the EU welcomed the adoption of Armenia’s child protection legislative package in 2025 as a significant step towards strengthening the legal framework.

Armenia and the European Union also discussed the protection of fundamental freedoms, including the freedoms of assembly, association and expression, preserving an open space for civil society, ensuring a free and independent media environment, and strengthening the role of civil society.

The European Union also inquired about Armenia’s efforts to safeguard media independence. The sides also exchanged views on human rights in the armed forces.