Armenia`s ex-minister of culture calls on cultural workers to stand  between protesters and police

ArmInfo. Former Minister of Culture of Armenia Hasmik Poghosyan addressed cultural figures in the country, against the backdrop of ongoing demonstrations, demanding the resignation of the current Prime Minister of the Republic of  Armenia Nikol Pashinyan.

The statement, in part, says: "Dear representatives of the cultural  sphere of Armenia, today our country is going through difficult  times. As a result of the use of special means by the police against  demonstrators in front of the parliament building, many of our fellow  citizens were injured. Among them are women, and one person,  unfortunately, was blown off fingers. The Internet is full of  photographs and videos showing the violence taking place.

At this difficult moment, I appeal to you, caring representatives of  Armenian culture. It is our duty to stand up for our people, our  brothers and sisters. I urge you to take to the streets and stand  between the police and the protesters to prevent further bloodshed.

Our culture has always been a symbol of peace, humanity and justice.  Let's show everyone that the power of art and spirit is stronger than  the power of weapons and violence. Together we can maintain peace and  prevent further tragedies. I hope for your understanding and  support."

It should be noted that Poghosyan served as Minister of Culture from  2006 to 2016.

On June 12, police used disproportionate, unprovoked force against  peaceful protesters outside the government building. Stun grenades  and other special equipment were used. More than 100 people were  injured, according to official data.

According to available data, as a result of the use of special  equipment, about 10 media representatives were injured and editorial  equipment was damaged. Footage has circulated in the media indicating  a targeted strike of stun grenades in the direction of journalists  and cameramen working at the protest site.  Moreover, there is a lot  of footage on the World Wide Web of several dozen police officers in  a crowd severely beating a demonstrator who is trying to protect his  head and face with his hands. The head of the Armenian police  justified these actions of the police, assuring that the protesters  did not obey the legal demands of law enforcement officers. But video  footage of the incidents indicates the opposite.

Human rights organizations and foreign diplomatic missions, which so  zealously defended human rights in our country until 2018, remain  deathly silent.