In 2024, the situation with the rights of the LGBT+ community in Armenia remained difficult, as confirmed by the annual report of the human rights organization Pink Armenia. The document highlights numerous cases of rights violations, discrimination, and violence faced by LGBT+ people in the country.
Requests for help and rights violations
During the year, the organization received 365 requests for support, 65 of which concerned specific human rights violations. Most of these cases (38) were related to domestic violence, including physical and psychological abuse, sexual violence, and blackmail. These incidents point to serious problems in the family environment regarding the acceptance of the sexual orientation and gender identity of loved ones.
Distrust of law enforcement agencies
Of the 65 recorded cases of rights violations, only 10 victims contacted law enforcement agencies, and only three cases were investigated. The reasons for such low activity are distrust in the effectiveness of investigations, humiliating treatment, and lack of personal data protection. This indicates a systemic problem in ensuring justice for LGBT+ people.
Discrimination in education and at work
The report also documents cases of discrimination in educational institutions and workplaces. LGBT+ people often face prejudice, which leads to violations of their rights to education and work. This includes bullying in schools, refusal to hire, and dismissal due to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Spread of hate speech
In the public sphere, especially on social media and in the media, there is a spread of hate speech against the LGBT+ community. Such statements often follow public incidents involving LGBT+ individuals and contribute to the formation of negative attitudes in society. Despite the danger of such manifestations, Armenia still lacks comprehensive legislation aimed at preventing and punishing hate speech.
International obligations and the need for reform
The report highlights Armenia’s international obligations to protect the rights of LGBT+ individuals, including the need for legislative changes and political and administrative reforms. Despite some progress, effective mechanisms to ensure the rights of the LGBT+ community are still lacking.
Pink Armenia calls on state institutions and civil society to join forces to build an inclusive society that respects the dignity of every person, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. The report emphasizes the need for systemic changes to ensure equal rights and opportunities for all citizens of Armenia.
The full text of the report THE HUMAN RIGHTS SITUATION OF LGBT+ PEOPLE IN ARMENIA DURING 2024: