The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) welcomes the Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs statement that the Government of Armenia adheres to the principles of “democracy, fundamental freedoms and protection of human rights,” and it calls on the protesters and the authorities to refrain from violence.

OHCHR Spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani stated the aforementioned on Thursday.

On early Tuesday morning, the Yerevan police dispersed the activists protesting against electricity price hike by using water cannon, and they detained many activists and journalists, who were later released.

On Tuesday evening, however, the sit-in participants marched toward the Office of the President—on Baghramian Avenue—yet again and with a larger crowd, but the police blocked their way again.

But the sit-in continues at the starting point of Baghramian Avenue, which is closed off, and traffic towards this boulevard is suspended.

Despite numerous protests, the Public Services Regulatory Commission recently increased the price of electricity in Armenia, and this decision will take effect on August 1. The decision, however, is expected to be followed by an increase in the prices of numerous products and services in the country.