Addressing domestic violence requires not only protecting victims but also working with perpetrators to challenge abusive behaviour and prevent further violence. The Council of Europe is supporting the Ministry of Labour and Welfare of Armenia in developing and implementing a programme for perpetrators of domestic violence, based on European standards and focused on accountability, behavioural change and victim safety.
A key part of this work is building the capacity of professionals to deliver the programme effectively. Civil society professionals alongside officials from the Probation Service of the Ministry of Justice of Armenia took part in dedicated facilitator training. Their involvement is also helping prepare for the programme’s future adaptation and implementation within the probation system.
Following an initial five-day training in June 2026, the same group took part in a second five-day cycle in Yerevan from 12 to 16 October. Having piloted the programme, participants brought practical experiences and challenges into the training. They discussed lessons learned, explored difficult situations and strengthened their facilitation skills through practical exercises, case discussions and feedback.
One professional delivering the programme said, “Working with perpetrators of domestic violence is complex and demanding. We must address resistance, challenge harmful beliefs, and keep accountability and victim safety at the centre of our work. The training gave us an opportunity not only to strengthen our knowledge, but also to discuss real challenges, learn from each other and practise the facilitation skills needed to deliver the programme effectively.”
By developing the perpetrator programme and preparing professionals to deliver it, the Council of Europe is helping strengthen Armenia’s response to domestic violence, with victim safety at its core.
The series of training have been organised as part of the “Ending violence against women and promoting gender equality in Armenia” Project phase II, within the framework of the Council of Europe Action Plan for Armenia 2023-2026.
