Human Rights Defender Anahit Manasyan has expressed deep concern over the increasing number of deaths, suicides, and self-harm incidents in Armenia’s penitentiary institutions. She stressed the urgent need for a systemic response to prevent such occurrences.
Manasyan emphasized that this trend is alarming and called on relevant state authorities to take effective preventive measures. Her office noted persistent issues in ensuring adequate medical assistance for detainees with mental health disorders.
She pointed out systemic deficiencies in organizing proper care, particularly the initiation of inpatient and involuntary psychiatric treatment procedures. Manasyan reiterated that the state bears full responsibility for safeguarding the health and right to life of individuals deprived of liberty or otherwise under its jurisdiction.
The Ombudswoman reminded that concerns over detainees' health rights have been repeatedly raised in her annual reports, public statements, and discussions with competent authorities.
She again underscored the need for appropriate oversight and psychiatric support for inmates with mental health conditions.
“The Ombudswoman once more emphasized that individuals with mental health issues in places of detention must be properly monitored and provided with sufficient psychiatric care and services,” the statement said.
According to her office, every case of death, suicide, or self-harm in detention receives her full attention, and clarifications are officially requested from the competent bodies.
On July 14, another death occurred in Armavir Penitentiary. According to Factor TV, inmate A.S. committed suicide in a punishment cell using a bedsheet. Since the beginning of the year, there have been 16 deaths in penitentiaries, six of which were suicides. This marks a sharp increase compared to the previous year, which saw 12 deaths in total, all due to natural causes.
