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The RA NA delegation participates in the works of the ongoing PACE Session in Strasbourg.

In her speech the member of the RA NA delegation Arusyak Julhakyan said:

“Honorable colleagues,

Today, I am honored to speak to you about the significant democratic reforms that have taken place in Armenia since the 2018 revolution. The Velvet Revolution marked a pivotal moment in our nation’s history, ushering in an era of hope, change, and democratic renewal.

The Velvet Revolution was a moment when Armenians came together to demand change, calling for an end to corruption and authoritarianism. This revolution was not just about changing leaders; it was about fundamentally transforming the political landscape of Armenia.

Since the revolution, Armenia has embarked on a path of comprehensive democratic reforms aimed at strengthening its democratic institutions, enhancing transparency, and promoting the rule of law. One of the most significant post-revolution achievements has been the overhaul of the electoral system. Efforts were made by the Government of Armenia to ensure that elections are free, fair, and transparent. The Electoral Code, as well as the Law on Political Parties were amended significantly in compliance with many recommendations of the Venice Commission, as well as the ones of the OSCE/ODIHR.

Strengthening the independence of the judiciary has been a cornerstone of Armenia's democratic reforms. Steps, such as integrity check of the candidates for judges, prosecutors, investigators, have been taken to ensure that those appointed are merit-based and are free from political influence.

A special focus has been placed on combating corruption. Ambitious reforms within the police, the establishment of anti-corruption bodies and the implementation of stringent measures against corrupt practices have helped to prevent and counteract corruption creating a more transparent and accountable judiciary and law enforcement bodies.

There has been a significant push towards ensuring media freedom. Efforts have been made to promote independent journalism. As a result, Armenia is the 43^rd among 180 countries in the Media Freedom index as of 2024 improving its ranking every consecutive year.

Dear colleagues, war is the worst enemy of democracy. However, this challenge has not prevented the Armenian Government to continue its democratic reforms in parallel with the security related issues. After 44-day war in Nagorno Karabakh in 2020, after the further attacks on the sovereign territory of Armenia there was a debate among the Armenian society that democracy and security exclude each other, and it is not possible to be a strong country while being democratic. Despite all security related difficulties, the answer of the Armenian people to this debate was precise. Democracy and security do not contradict but rather complement each other. Democracy is the conscious choice of the people of Armenia and it stands strong for protecting Armenia’s democracy.

Dear colleagues, while significant progress has been made, the journey of democratic reforms is ongoing. The foundations have been laid, but it is up to us to build upon them. The success of these reforms depends on the political will of the Armenian Government. We must remain committed to the principles of democracy, ensuring that our institutions are resilient and responsive to the needs of all citizens.

Colleagues, democratic reforms carried out in Armenia since the 2018 revolution have set our nation on a path towards a brighter, more democratic future. And the Armenian Government will do its best to uphold our democratic values, and build a society where freedom, justice, and equality reign supreme.

Thank you.”