The Committee to Protect Freedom of Expression (CPFE) has released its second-quarter report for 2025, highlighting the state of press freedom in Armenia and detailing violations against the media. At a press briefing, Committee Chairman Ashot Melikyan noted that the period was politically and socially tense, which significantly affected the media landscape, further deepening existing polarization.
According to Melikyan, pressure on journalists increased, and two incidents of physical violence were recorded. “Journalists face pressure based on their political orientation, encountering obstacles in their work. Representatives of opposition media often face difficulties with government officials and MPs, while journalists from pro-government outlets encounter hostility from opposition figures. These dynamics contribute to increasing pressure,” he explained.
The report cites 36 cases of pressure during the second quarter of 2025, up by 11 compared to the previous quarter. Two cases of physical violence were committed by law enforcement officers. Violations of the right to access and disseminate information totaled 39 cases, up by 10.
Melikyan also noted an increase in legal actions, with 16 new lawsuits filed—each based on alleged slander or insult—three more than the prior quarter.
“There were 29 court cases in the half-year, which is a high figure. If this trend continues, the year could prove worrisome in this regard. International bodies do not welcome this pattern; it is a negative trend when officials file lawsuits,” he said.
The lawsuits include:
- Business figures: 6 cases
- Former and current officials: 3
- Politicians: 2
- Healthcare professionals: 2
- Private individuals: 2
- One lawyer
Melikyan expressed concern over the increasing frequency of insults, threats, and disrespectful treatment faced by journalists. “This behavior is becoming normalized in the political environment, which is troubling. We recorded a large number of such incidents—17 of which were committed by officials or state representatives,” he said.
