U.S. Ambassador highlights importance of adopting special law on domestic violence
It is important to adopt a special law on domestic violence in Armenia that would envisage criminal liability and contain elements of protection and prevention, U.S. Ambassador to Armenia John Heffern told reporters on Monday.
The envoy said that the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence contributed greatly to an increase of public awareness. He stressed that the matter concerns not only punishing those committing acts of violence, but also preventive measures and support to victims.
Henriette Ahrens, UN Resident Coordinator a.i., said for her part that it is not only the law on violence that can change the situation: joint efforts and special policy are needed to tackle the situation.