Armenia Implements Police Reforms with the Support of the European Union

Within the framework of the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed between the European Union and the Republic of Armenia, the EU supports partner Armenia in implementing the government-planned reforms. Armenia’s new Patrol service, which started its work in July 2021, was within the agenda of CEPA, the agreement that strengthens EU-Armenia cooperation.

“The European Union was one of the first partners that conducted an integrated and complete assessment of the police system and highlighted the shortcomings that later served as the focus of our plans. Until today, the European Union is involved through very different methods, including some financial investment as well as the significant expertise support that they have provided to the sector,” Amalya Hovsepyan, Coordinating Advisor of the International Legal Cooperation from the Armenia’s ‎Ministry of Justice said.

EU is Armenia’s key partner in the area of reforms and, within the context of the EU-Armenia Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement, the implementation of police and judicial reforms in Armenia is receiving substantial support despite the difficult conditions linked to the COVID-19 crisis.

“Before launching the police reforms, the Republic of Armenia began a broad partnership campaign and, naturally, the European Union, as one of our main partners, was in the front row when it came to both supporting and assisting us as well as providing advice,” Amalya Hovsepyan underlined.

The objective of the police reforms being implemented with EU support include the creation of a safer environment, and increased reliability of the relationship between the police and citizens.

 “More than 700 patrol service officers received the necessary 5-month-log and in-depth training. The main emphasis was on their skills, abilities, and knowledge. Our patrol service officers have skills and knowledge matching international standards, and the equipment that they will be provided – both from the point of view of devices and weapons—will help them use those skills to the best effect. The new service is also equipped with the Operative Management Centre, because it cannot work without the OMC and vice versa. The Operative Management Centre will include as the database that will secure contact between citizens and patrol officers,” added the Coordinating Advisor of the International Legal Cooperation from the Armenia’s ‎Ministry of Justice.

The police reform work is ongoing with the aim to have the new patrol service operational across the territory of Armenia, including the two northern regions of Shirak and Lori.