During the visit of Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan to The Hague, on December 3, Armenia’s joining to the Freedom Online Coalition was announced, Armenian Foreign Ministry reports. With unanimous support from all coalition member countries, Armenia became its 42nd member.
The exchange of the necessary documents for accession to the Coalition took place during the meeting between the Foreign Ministers of Armenia and the Netherlands, under the current Dutch presidency of the platform.
In this regard, the Ministers made posts on the "X" platform.
Armenia’s Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan wrote:
“Delighted as Armenia joined the Freedom Online Coalition, announced under Dutch chairship following my meeting with Caspar Veldkamp in The Hague. This is yet another milestone manifesting Armenia’s steadfast commitment to advancing fundamental freedoms and human rights-based approach, including on digital platforms.”
In his post, Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp specifically noted: “We are also delighted that Armenia joined the «Freedom Online Coalition» during our chairship. This reflects Armenia's strong commitment to promoting and protecting human rights online. I commend Armenia for taking this step.”
In the communication issued by the Freedom Online Coalition regarding Armenia's membership, it was emphasized that over recent years, Armenia has demonstrated its commitment to promoting and protecting human rights online, both through domestic initiatives and its active participation in various international organisations and partnerships. Armenia is implementing a number of initiatives guided by its Digital Transformation Strategy (2021-2025), aimed at developing transparent and efficient digital governance, promoting digital literacy, and expanding access to innovative technologies for its citizens. At the same time, Armenia’s active participation in convenings for the Summit for Democracy underscored its commitment to strengthen democratic institutions worldwide. The statement also includes a message from Armenia's Deputy Foreign Minister Vahan Kostanyan, emphasizing that: “Democracy, rule of law and human rights are absolute values for Armenia and its people. Nowadays, when we all witness the rise of new hybrid threats and digital challenges, it is of crucial importance to unite efforts with like-minded partners aiming at safeguarding human rights and fundamental freedoms proclaimed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.”
The full text of the communication by the Coalition is available by the following
link.
