In 2021, Armenia made a significant step forward in the execution of judgments of the European Court of Human Rights through the adoption and implementation of the new Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code. However, while the legal framework has advanced, the implementation of these reforms – particularly in law enforcement practice – remains a key challenge, and continued capacity building for judges, prosecutors, and legal practitioners is important to ensure the consistent and effective application of the new provisions, especially those concerning digital search procedures introduced by the Criminal Procedure Code.
With this aim, a workshop on key developments and best practices related to the execution of European Court of Human Rights judgments, particularly under Articles 8 and 46 of the ECHR, was organised on 26–27 May, in Yerevan, in cooperation with the Court of Cassation of Armenia and the Office of the Representative of Armenia on International Legal Matters. The event brought together Armenian legal professionals and representatives of the European Court of Human Rights, and the Department for the Execution of Judgments of the European Court of Human Rights. The event provided a platform for in-depth discussions on complex issues, including interference with electronic devices in the case-law of the European Court of Human Rights, as well as the practical implementation of compensation mechanisms at national level.
In her opening remarks, Clare Ovey, Director of the Human Rights, Directorate General Human Rights and Rule of Law of the Council of Europe said: “We are here to examine pressing topics, such as the legitimacy of interference with electronic devices, the Court’s approach to evidence from unknown sources, and key aspects of judgment execution, including compensation, which will contribute meaningfully to your work and to strengthening human rights protection in Armenia.”
During her visit to Yerevan on 26 and 27 May, Ms Ovey also met with the President of the Constitutional Court, the President of the Court of Cassation, the Human Rights Defender, the Deputy Minister of Justice, the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, the Acting Representative of Armenia on International Legal Matters and the Head of the Migration and Citizenship Service.
Ms Ovey confirmed the Council of Europe’s readiness to continue supporting Armenian partners through the Council of Europe’s cooperation programmes focusing on justice and human rights.
The workshop was organised by the Council of Europe project “Further Support to the Implementation of the ECHR through Effective Execution of the European Court of Human Rights Judgments in Armenia”, under the Council of Europe Action Plan for Armenia 2023–2026.