A new Advocacy and Assistance Center (AAC) opened in Yerevan on November 5. Attending the event were USAID Mission Director Jatinder Cheema, senior officials from the Armenian government, and representatives of international community and local NGOs.

Funded and established through the USAID Mobilizing Action Against Corruption Activity, the Yerevan AAC serves as a public complaints office where victims of corruption receive free legal assistance on a walk-in or call-in basis (toll free number 08000 11 10). The center is equipped with a team of experienced lawyers and support staff who provide immediate legal support through administrative channels, taking cases to court or referring them to the public prosecutor.  Additionally, the AAC will conduct public awareness activities and promote the adoption of preventive anti-corruption reforms in coordination with government, USAID reported.

Dr. Cheema noted that over the past two years AAC lawyers have handled more than 1,300 cases related to corruption in a variety of sectors, such as healthcare, public services and problems with traffic police. “By educating Armenians about their legal rights and spreading the word about successful cases, the Centers are empowering citizens and sensitizing government officials and business leaders to many of the key reforms that can be made to improve governance and make corrupt acts more difficult,” she said, reiterating the U.S. Government’s continued commitment to fostering democratic and transparent governance in Armenia.

The Yerevan AAC is operated by the Armenian Young Lawyers Association, which also runs similar centers in Aragatsotn, Ararat, Kotayk, Lori, Shirak, Syunik, Tavush and Vayots-Dzor provinces.  Two other NGOs run AACs in Armavir and Gegharkunik