Systemic Failures in Medical Care at Armavir Penitentiary Endanger Lives

The situation at Armavir Penitentiary has become a systemic failure in which people are effectively being left without adequate medical care. During the Public Monitoring Group’s unannounced visit on 26 March 2026, the Group documented serious violations of the right to health and access to medical care, which require an immediate response from the competent authorities. The Group documented cases in which persons deprived of liberty engaged in self-harm, attempted suicide, or declared hunger strikes, yet did not receive appropriate medical assistance. In addition, many persons deprived of liberty suffer from illnesses that, at least according to a preliminary assessment, may be incompatible with the continued execution of their sentences. Nevertheless, the necessary urgent medical examinations have not been organised. The Constitution of the Republic of Armenia, the European Convention on Human Rights, and the United Nations Nelson Mandela Rules clearly require the State to safeguard the health of persons deprived of liberty. The reality, however, is quite different. People remain confined within a system where their voices are rarely heard by the wider public, and access to medical treatment depends on a range of circumstances rather than being guaranteed as a fundamental right. Persons deprived of liberty cannot independently ensure the protection of their own health. The State bears full responsibility for safeguarding their lives and health. The Public Monitoring Group Calls for: The immediate provision of appropriate medical assistance in all documented cases. Consideration of issues related to illnesses that may be incompatible with imprisonment, including independent medical assessments where necessary. Proper medical supervision of persons who have engaged in self-harm, attempted suicide, or declared hunger strikes. Mentions Դիտորդական խումբ (Public Monitoring Group) @подписчики @топовые поклонники Ազատություն ռադիոկայան (Azatutyun Radio) Hetq Tert.am Factor TV ՀՀ կառավարություն (Government of the Republic of Armenia) Nikol Pashinyan / Նիկոլ Փաշինյան ՀՀ առողջապահության նախարարություն (Ministry of Health of the Republic of Armenia) Anahit Avanesyan