April is recognized as Sexual Violence Awareness Month
On April 19, UNFPA, in collaboration with the "Sexual Violence Crisis Center," initiated a discussion and exhibition titled "Combating Sexual Violence in Armenia: Current challenges and Joint Steps". This event was organized as part of the "Accountable Institutions and Human Rights Protection in Armenia" program, which is funded by the European Union and implemented by UNDP, UNICEF, UNFPA and OSCE.
During the discussion, the participants discussed the current issues of sexual violence in Armenia and the joint steps that need to be taken to overcome the problem. The stakeholders mainly emphasized the lack of a unified, multidisciplinary, and comprehensive response mechanism that is the most significant gap in addressing sexual violence today.
"We must unite our efforts to ensure that everyone in our society lives in a safe environment where human rights are respected. Together, we must find solutions and establish mechanisms to prevent sexual violence, while also providing effective and comprehensive support to those who have experienced violence," stated Tsovinar Harutyunyan, the head of office of UNFPA Armenia.
Following the discussion, an opening ceremony was held for an exhibition initiated by the "Sexual Violence Crisis Center." The exhibition showcases 21 stories of individuals who became the victims of sexual abuse, illustrating their difficult way on overcoming trauma and the lasting impact of the violence on their lives.
STATISTICS: According to data from the "Sexual Violence Crisis Center," there have been 188 recorded cases of sexual violence in the past ten years, with 83 cases involving minors. In 2022, there were 30 cases reported.
The majority of sexual violence cases, approximately 90% (166 cases), involve female victims. Among the recorded cases, 104 were reported in Yerevan, while the highest numbers in the regions were in Armavir (18 cases), and 11 cases each in Ararat, Kotayk, and Lori marzes.
