Armenia’s Human Rights Defender attends 18ICOAF in Australia

Armenia’s Human Rights Defender Anahit Manasyan participated in the 18th International Conference of Ombuds Institutions for the Armed Forces (18ICOAF), held in Sydney on October 20–21, during a working visit to Australia.

The conference was jointly organized by the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF) and the Office of the Inspector-General of the Australian Defense Force under the theme “Military Ombuds Institutions in the Evolving Geostrategic Environment.”

The event brought together representatives of ombuds institutions from various countries, bodies exercising oversight functions in the defense sector, and international experts to exchange experience, strengthen cooperation, and improve the effectiveness of independent oversight in the armed forces.

The opening session featured addresses by Matt Keogh, Australia’s Minister for Defense Personnel and Veterans’ Affairs; James Gaynor, Inspector-General of the Australian Defense Force; and Ambassador Nathalie Chuard, Director of the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF), the Armenian Human Rights Defender’s Office said in a press release.

The conference agenda included issues related to protecting service members’ rights amid changes in the security environment, conditions of service, access to medical and psychological support, and the well-being of service members and their families.

Separate discussions addressed challenges arising from the use of artificial intelligence and new technologies in the military, the legality of orders, compliance with international humanitarian law, and the role of ombuds institutions in ensuring accountability in the armed forces.

“The conference serves as an important platform for discussing ways to expand international cooperation among ombuds institutions, strengthen their independence, and develop effective mechanisms for protecting rights,” the Armenian Human Rights Defender’s Office said.