Today, UNDP in Armenia, together with UNICEF and UNFPA, launched a new 3-year, USD 2.5 million “ATHENA: Advancing the Human Rights Agenda and Enhancing National Authorities” project, funded by the European Union (EU).

The project, under the overall coordination of UNDP, will support further development of the institutional capacities and strategic communication of the Human Rights Defender’s Office, the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, the Office of the Representative on International Legal Matters, the Chamber of Advocates, and Public Defender’s Office to protect and promote human rights and drive forward the modern public policy agenda, as well as enhance the relevant competencies of the staff of these institutions.

“Building on the impressive achievements of the ‘Accountable Institutions and Human Rights Protection in Armenia’ project, generously funded by the European Union, we are proud to launch the ATHENA project, which aims to further strengthen the institutional capacities and strategic communication of key human rights bodies in Armenia. Our commitment remains steadfast in promoting good governance, the rule of law, and the protection of human rights in Armenia. By enhancing the outreach and effectiveness of institutions like the Human Rights Defender’s Office, the Ministries of Justice and Internal Affairs, ATHENA will drive forward a policy agenda that ensures no one is left behind, fostering a culture of respect and equality for all,” said Natia Natsvlishvili, UNDP Resident Representative in Armenia.

Within the framework of the project, the CSOs and the expert community will engage with the government institutions in a regular and informed dialogue on public policy issues, expanding the thematic areas from protection of human rights, children’s rights, refugees rights, gender equality, fight against gender based and domestic violence, to other issues, such as police, justice and constitutional reforms, and sustainable development.