The UN Working Group on discrimination against women and girls on Wednesday called on Armenia to use political momentum from recent policy and legislative reforms to advance from formal gender equality measures to substantive gender equality in the country.
Following a 10-day trip to Armenia, the Working Group released a statement commending the government for the visible progress in gender equality the country has in made in recent years. The nation has improved its gender inequality index, moving from 0.35 in 2010 to 0.22 in 2021, and its rank in global gender gap index, moving from 102 to 59 between 2016 and 2025.
Improved conditions for women are largely tied to recent legal reforms that address gender-based violence, establish gender-responsive public policies, and welcome women-led grassroots initiatives. Additionally, Armenia has demonstrated an adherence to international standards and an interest in discussions surrounding gender-equality development. The nation has regularly participated in international events and has signaled commitment to treaties and conventions.
In light of notable advancements, experts encouraged Armenian leaders to transform formal equality measures to substantive equality, demonstrating gender equality not only legally, but functionally. The Working Group provided a framework for enforcement and implementation of progressive legal measures, known as CREATE, which aims to address persistent structural barriers, including “entrenched patriarchal stereotypes.” Among suggested next steps includes the formation of a national institution for the protection and promotion of women’s rights, whose mandate would align with international standards.
Further, the Working Group explicitly called for the adoption of a comprehensive anti-discrimination law. While the government reportedly has an evolving draft law from June 2025, the report called for the explicit prohibition on specific forms of gender-based discrimination and enumeration of a broad range of protected categories.
The Working Group is scheduled to present its full comprehensive report on its Armenia visit to the UN Human Rights Council in June 2027.
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