Tsaghkadzor, Armenia | 14-15 May, 23-24 June

More than 50 police officers from the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Armenia enhanced their knowledge and practical skills on personal data protection and privacy rights through a specialised capacity-building programme supported by the Council of Europe. The programme focused on strengthening the application of European human rights standards in law enforcement activities, particularly in relation to the lawful and proportionate processing of personal data, confidentiality of communications, and the protection of the right to private life.

Delivered by international and national experts, the sessions addressed key issues such as international standards on personal data protection, relevant case law of the European Court of Human Rights, data security, and the challenges posed by surveillance and digital technologies in policing. Participants also explored the principles of legality, necessity, proportionality, and data minimisation in operational contexts, while examining systemic challenges related to personal data protection in Armenia.

Through practical case studies and scenario-based discussions, police officers strengthened their ability to assess the legality of data processing activities, identify risks related to sensitive personal data, and apply human rights safeguards in everyday police work. The programme further contributed to promoting more accountable, transparent, and rights-based policing practices in Armenia.

These events are part of the Council of Europe’s support within the framework of the Project “Further strengthening the protection of the rights of persons in detention” that assists the national authorities to further enhance penitentiary reform, prison health care and the protection of human rights of persons deprived of liberty. The Project is financed within the framework of the Council of Europe Action Plan for Armenia 2023-2026 and implemented by the Council of Europe