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1. In view of the commitment by the Government to ensure life, health and security of its citizens, as well as proper public awareness of them, HCA Vanadzor conducted an analysis of the death cases and circumstances triggered by the hostilities during April 2-5 of 2016 (prior to reaching a ceasefire by the Chiefs of General Headquarters of the Republic of Armenia and Azerbaijan), and after the following tensions, the findings of which were delivered in a report published on December 1, 2016

2. On December 10, 2016, HCAV held an event to mark the International Human Rights Day entitled: “I have a right ….”

3. On December 13, 2016, July 18 and July 20, 2017 HCAV initiated trainings in Ashtarak and Gyumri, respectively, on ‘Fundamentals of human rights. Rights and duties of conscripts and servicemen; legal regulations on protection of conscripts’ rights’

4. On February 11-12, 2017, HCAV, in cooperation with the Center for Media Initiatives held a working discussion with journalists and representatives of numerous state organizations on the topic of ‘Features of covering problems of drug users and persons with mental health problems’. As a result of the 2-day working discussion, some of the participants prepared and published thematic journalistic materials

5. On March 27, 2017 at the 17th session of the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, representatives of Armenian NGOs, including 2 representatives of HCA Vanadzor, presented the progress in implementation of Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The Organization’s representatives drew the Committee’s attention especially on ensuring the Convention right to equal recognition before the law and living independently and being included in the community

6. Observation of the April 2, 2017 Parliamentary Elections was co-financed under the Project. The observation was carried out within the ‘Independent Observer Alliance’. About 450 observers trained by the Organization observed the parliamentary elections at 200 polling stations proportionately selected from across the country. The observation mission also counted about 20 international observers. 5 interim references, conclusions and reports on the process and findings of observation were published

7. On January 7-9, 2017, the Organization’s general meeting took place. It was attended by 22 Organization and staff members. At the general meeting, the participants assessed the performance of the Organization’s action plan, reviewed the action plan of 2017 and elected another board.

8. As a result of outgoing work discussions on September 1-3, 2017, HCA Vanadzor developed its Strategy for 2018-2020. The reconsideration of the Strategy and development of the New Strategic Plan were conditioned by new challenges facing human rights in the RA. As a result, the Organization’s vision and mission were edited, its key strategic directions were not changed and its objectives and activities were worded taking into account the new human rights challenges.

9. Special attention was paid to the staff safety, health insurance, professional development and need for psychological support.