YEREVAN. – OSCE is very concerned about the events at the takeover of the Erebuni police compound by force, Ambassador, head of the OSCE Office in Yerevan, Argo Avakov told Armenian News-NEWS.am.
In response to a question by the agency to comment on the situation around Erebuni police headquarters, Ambassador said: “We join the officials, political parties, civil society, religious and cultural leaders and international actors in condemning violence. We regret the loss of life of a police officer and express our condolences to the family. We wish speedy recovery to the persons injured in connection with the events.”
Ambassador Avakov called for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages: “The situation should be solved and public order restored in compliance with the rule of law. We call upon all those concerned to exercise maximum restraint. We closely follow the demonstrations that have taken place recently in connection with the events in Erebuni, including the action of police forces. Public order management should be conducted in full compliance with the rule of law and respect of fundamental rights. Ensuring human rights during mass events, meetings and demonstrations is a core element of democratic policing, as promoted by the OSCE.”
He recalled that the mandate of the OSCE Office in Yerevan is to promote the implementation of OSCE commitments, including those relating to human rights and fundamental freedoms.
“The OSCE Office in Yerevan has established solid co-operation ties with Armenian authorities and civil society structures. It stands ready to assist, upon request, in facilitating contacts, dialogue and co-operation on any issue falling within the scope of its mandate.
According to its mandate, the OSCE Office in Yerevan provides support to Armenian authorities in the implementation of OSCE commitments. In this regard, the Office co-operates with law enforcement structures to build their capacities in democratic policing, including respect of fundamental rights in public order management during mass events, meetings and demonstrations.
Previous activities have included sharing best practices in conducting negotiations in crisis situations. The OSCE has facilitated several exchanges between police and civil society on approaches to public order management and is always willing to do so,” Ambassador said.
