ArmInfo. Chaired by Armenian Prime Minister Karen Karapetyan, the Anti-Corruption Council held a meeting at the Government.
First of all, the Council touched on the issues related to liquidation of administrative corruption in provision of public services. Karen Zadoyan, Chairman of the Armenian Young Lawyers Association, suggested re- launching anti-corruption centers in Armenia. He said that in 2011-2014 there were 11 such centers funded by USAID. Zadoyan pointed out that the anti-corruption centers should provide legal support to the citizens who suffered from corruption, monitor the procedures and legislative acts, make proposals on reforms, and enhance public awareness. It is envisaged to implement the program at the expense of co-financing of the Government and donor organizations.
Prime Minister Karapetyan stressed the importance of involving the civil society in the process, ensuring a feedback and enhancing the public control. He instructed Head of the Armenian Government Staff David Harutyunyan to initiate debates on this idea with participation of the relevant structures.
As regards the protection of the persons providing information about corruption crimes, Karen Zadoyan said that their rights are protected in accordance with the current legislation that stipulates certain security guarantees. In addition, he suggested setting up an e-platform, via which anonymous complaints will be received.
Armenian Justice Minister Arpine Hovhannisyan pointed out that these issues are being discussed. She added that it is also envisaged to create an opportunity to give a reciprocal question to the anonymous person who provides the information about corruption. The Prime Minister instructed David Harutyunyan and Arpine Hovhannisyan to take steps towards introduction of protection mechanisms for those persons and submission of the relevant draft law for the consideration of the Government.
Transparency International Anti-Corruption Center Executive Director Sona Ayvazyan presented the problems related to the clashes of interests, declaration of property and revenues in public service. Minister Arpine Hovhannisyan said that legislative packages are being prepared to resolve the existing problems. Karen Karepetyan instructed the Justice Ministry to submit the relevant package to the Government.
The Council also touched on the proposals on the system anti-corruption reforms in the business sector. The proposals concerned introduction of an institute of business interests defender, official investigations, measures of responsibility, etc. "I attach much importance to creation of an equal, fair and transparent field in the business environment in business," the Prime Minister said, stressing the significance of the proposals.
As regards the corruption in the education sector, the Prime Minister noted that a package of reforms is being prepared to settle the problems. Karen Karapetyan instructed the Ministry of Education and Science to study the existing problems and submit its proposals to the Government