The Armenian government has stepped back from a security bill that would require businesses, schools, and other private entities in Yerevan to install security cameras on their premises.

Human Rights Watch (HRW) recently described the Armenian government’s bill for the mandatory installation of video surveillance systems with 24-hour police access throughout Yerevan, as unjustified and that it interferes with privacy and other rights.

It appears that the Armenian government is taking note of these concerns, allowing more time for public debate on the pros and cons of giving authorities expanded powers to potentially track individuals’ movements.

The bill, which the government has touted as an anti-crime measure designed to strengthen “public security”, passed its first parliamentary review in June 2024.

Photo: Minister of Internal Affairs Vahe Ghazaryan, Deputy Minister Arpineh Sargsyan/police.am