

The European Union's commitment to advancing judicial reforms in Armenia marked another milestone with the conclusion of the 'Support to Justice Sector Reforms in Armenia: Phase II' program. In partnership with Armenian justice authorities and various international stakeholders, the EU implemented a comprehensive initiative that spanned from May 2024 to May 2026, aimed at bolstering the competencies and infrastructures within Armenia's justice sector. Throughout its two-year duration, the program orchestrated an impressive array of activities, including 37 extensive training sessions and workshops. These were designed to benefit over 1,200 professionals from the Armenian justice community and involved parties. Participants ranged from judges and prosecutors to civil society actors, all receiving focused training on international standards, best practices, and new legislative tools introduced in Armenian law to enhance their capabilities for fair and efficient judicial processes. The initiative was not limited to immediate practice improvements; it also emphasized strategic dialogues and collaborative efforts at policy levels. The program hosted numerous strategic policy dialogues and donor coordination meetings, reflecting a broader aim at synchronizing efforts across various reform projects and optimizing resource allocation. This approach fostered an environment of cooperation and shared vision among local and European entities, contributing to a unified strategy for judicial advancement. Apart from professional development, the program dedicated significant resources to institutional reforms and infrastructure enhancements, aiming to streamline processes and reduce corruption within Armenia's justice system. It introduced new mechanisms for transparency and accountability, supported by the EU’s technical assistance, which included state-of-the-art IT solutions tailored to court management and procedural efficiency. The EU delegation in Armenia concluded the program with a commitment to maintaining collaboration with Armenian authorities beyond the official end date of the program. EU representatives underscored their ongoing support for Armenia's judiciary, emphasizing the importance of sustained reform efforts to uphold the rule of law, combat corruption, and protect human rights. Future collaborations have been envisioned to build upon the achievements of the current program, ensuring that the momentum for change and improvement continues. As remarked by the Head of the EU Delegation, the reforms are more than procedural changes; they represent a significant opportunity for Armenia to align more closely with European values of justice. This transformation is a testament to the enduring partnership between the EU and Armenia, as they work together towards a fairer, more transparent legal system that serves all members of society equally. The successful conclusion of this phase not only provides a model for future initiatives but also serves as a reminder of the vital role international partnerships play in supporting national reform agendas. With continued collaboration and dedication, Armenia's judicial system stands poised to become more robust and effective, fulfilling the aspirations of its citizens for justice and equity.