Armenia's Human Rights Defender’s office condemned discriminatory statements targeting persons with disabilities after a video featuring offensive remarks circulated in media and social networks. The video, quoting a former judicial official, appeared under the title, "It's a disgrace that deaf and blind people could become judges."
Ombudsman Anahit Manasyan has repeatedly emphasized the unacceptability of discrimination based on disability, highlighting that such public statements reinforce deeply-rooted stereotypes.
The statement expressed particular concern about discriminatory views that contradict international standards being propagated by representatives of professional communities, further amplified by media outlets through hate speech and discrimination.
“Modern society is founded on inclusion, ensuring persons with disabilities access diverse employment opportunities, including within the judicial system,” emphasized the ombudsman.
Given the prevalent negative stereotypes and various discriminatory practices, including hate speech directed at disabled people, the Ombudsman’s office stressed the urgency of comprehensive reforms. These reforms should cover human rights education, robust anti-discrimination legislation, adherence to professional ethics among officials and academics, public awareness campaigns, and proper enforcement of criminal law relating to discrimination.
The Ombudsman reiterated that urgent steps are essential to address the persistent discrimination and hate speech, urging all responsible actors to proactively resolve these challenges.
