The European Commission against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI) issued a report on the state of ethnic minorities and religious freedom in Armenia. The experts noted considerable improvements since the second report was adopted in 2007.

The report mentions the Armenian authorities have made considerable efforts in the field of ethnic-minority education and culture. “There are no limits on the amount of time private broadcasting stations may spend on ethnic-minority programs. The state has provided the Jewish community with help to preserve its heritage,” the report says.

“A new Law on refugees and Asylum has been enacted and all its implementing decrees have been drafted. All persons enjoying temporary protection have been granted refugee status. The capacity of the Yerevan Reception Center has been increased. International organizations provide training to Armenian border guards,” the report reads.

The report says there is no hostility against ethnic minorities and little or no evidence of anti-Muslim feeling.

However, the ECRI notes some shortcomings. “There is no comprehensive civil and administrative legislation against racial discrimination and no provisions in the Criminal Code prohibiting organizations that promote racism. No changes have been made to the Law on Alternative Service. A restrictive bill on freedom of conscience and religious organizations which has been the subject of widespread domestic and international criticism, has had its first reading in Parliament,” the ECRI report reads.

The European Commission against Racism and Intolerance was established by the Council of Europe.