On May 28, 2008, Arsen Kharatyan, an activist of "Sksela" and "Hima" youth movements was brutally beaten by unidentified assailants. Violence against the young public figure and numerous instances of gross violation of human rights prior to it do not witness of the authorities' willingness to overcome the gap between the government and society, as it was declared by them. On the contrary, they prove the lack of such will in reality, which increases mistrust toward the authorities. We condemn such actions and declare that any attempt to silence the voice of the people and to create an atmosphere of fear intensifies public resentment toward and dissatisfaction with the current administration. We urge to ensure impartial examination of the incident and to punish the criminals and those who "ordered" it.
Transparency International Anti-corruption Center, Helsinki Citizens' Assembly Vanadzor Office, "Huys" NGO, Helsinki Citizens' Assembly Armenian Committee, Lawyers for Human Rights, Rights and Freedom Center, "Asparez" Journalists' Club, "Zartonk-89" NGO, "The Soldier's Protection Committee" Initiative Group, National Citizens' Initiative, Youth for Democracy, "Mijnaberd" NGO, Foundation against Violation of Law
