YEREVAN, JULY 30, ARMENPRESS. President of the Chamber of Advocates of Armenia Ara Zohrabyan issued an announcement in regard to the recent events.

The announcement in particular reads:

“Footages and reports of journalists and other persons show that Police used physical force and special measures against citizens, assembly of people, including on-duty reporters in recent days. The “Police” Law of Armenia allows the Police to enforce power, in case it is aimed at goals defined by the Constitution and laws, and in case the measures to reach these goals are necessary, suitable and proportional.

It is no accident that principles of necessity and proportionality are underscored by international agreements and domestic legislation. Officials who have the power to enforce the law can form and preserve the feeling of justice among the people only by being guided through these principles. In case of violating these principles, regardless by what “higher” goals they were violated (for example – Being near the police precinct is dangerous for the safety of the citizen and for this “interest” the citizen must be “reasonably” scared so he doesn’t return), feelings of distrust, hatred, and being unprotected are appearing among citizens. And taking into consideration the public’s bold stance in the context of April’s events, the abovementioned negative feelings push people towards even more active actions.

By summing up the abovementioned, the Bar Association of Armenia –

-       Condemns the actions of police officers which violated the principles of necessity, proportionality and suitability while enforcing authority, including obstructing the duty of reporters

-       Urges authorized agencies to publicly, fully, comprehensively and objectively examine actions of police officers involving physical force and enforcement measures and bring the culprits to accountability.

-       Expresses supports to the community of reporters.”