HRC 55th Session: Item 8: Follow-up and implementation of the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action

Delivered by Ms. Nelli Petrosyan, Human Rights Officer

President,

Last year we marked the third decade of the adoption of the landmark Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action, a living document that states that "democracy is based on the freely expressed will of the people to determine their own political, economic, social and cultural systems and their full participation in all aspects of their lives".

Despite the existing security challenges, Armenia continued efforts in protecting and promoting human rights, demonstrating democratic maturity and unwavering respect for civil liberties. We are convinced that strong and consolidated democratic institutions make our country stronger and more resilient to pressing challenges. According to the Freedom House Armenia, continued to make democratic gains in 2022, becoming the only country in Nations in Transit 2023 with improvements on more than one indicator. According to the Reporters Without Borders, as well as Economist Intelligence Unit Armenia is recognized as a regional leader. Armenia also made a progress in corruption perception index and many other rankings.

Armenia fully endorses the VDPA's emphasis on the idea that respect for human rights for all contributes to the stability and well-being necessary for peaceful relations among nations.

I thank you.