The Freedom Online Coalition (FOC) is pleased to welcome Armenia as its 42nd Member.
Over recent years, Armenia has demonstrated its commitment to promoting and protecting human rights online, both through domestic initiatives and its active participation in various international organisations and partnerships.
Domestically, the Government of Armenia is implementing a number of initiatives guided by its Digital Transformation Strategy (2021-2025), which aim to strengthen digital governance to enable efficient, transparent, and data-driven public administration; promote digital literacy, including through the implementation of educational programs on the creation, use, and maintenance of digital technologies; and expand the availability of digital solutions for widespread use by the public, including essential services.
Armenia has been an active participant in various international organisations and initiatives to reinforce democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, including the Open Government Partnership (OGP) and the Summit for Democracy. As a Member of the OGP, Armenia has taken several steps in the implementation of action plans, including the development of systems for citizens to provide feedback on state services, the organisation of thematic multistakeholder discussions, and engagements with various programs to advance open government principles. Armenia is committed to the principles outlined in the Open Government Declaration, which include supporting civic participation and increasing access to new technologies for openness and accountability.
Armenia’s active participation in convenings for the Summit for Democracy underscored its commitment to strengthen democratic institutions worldwide. Furthermore, the Government’s support for principles aligned with the FOC’s mission has been demonstrated through its endorsement of the Coalition’s Joint Statement on the Heightened Risks Associated with Surveillance Technologies and the Importance of Safeguards in the Use of these Tools, which was presented during the 54th Session of the Human Rights Council.
On becoming a member of the FOC, Mr Vahan Kostanyan, Deputy Foreign Minister, said:
“Democracy, rule of law and human rights are absolute values for Armenia and its people. Nowadays, when we all witness the rise of new hybrid threats and digital challenges, it is of crucial importance to unite efforts with like-minded partners aiming at safeguarding human rights and fundamental freedoms proclaimed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
The Government of Armenia together with our vibrant civil society and international partners is committed to advancing a human rights-based approach to internet policies to effectively address the challenges of Internet freedom.
Membership in the Freedom Online Coalition is yet another pivotal milestone manifesting Armenia’s steadfast dedication, adherence and unwavering commitment to fostering human rights in the digital sphere to ensure freedom of expression, as well as secure and inclusive internet for all.”
As the Coalition’s 42nd Member, Armenia has pledged to uphold and advance the Coalition’s shared goals and values as outlined in the FOC Founding Declaration, the Helsinki Declaration, the Ottawa Agenda, and other foundational documents. Armenia will actively participate in the Coalition’s activities, sub-entities, and diplomatic networks, collaborating with Members to advance the FOC’s mission worldwide.
The Coalition looks forward to working with Armenia to advance Internet freedom and promote a rules-based, democratic, and inclusive world where human rights and fundamental freedoms are upheld in online and digital contexts.
