News - Yerevan Court Dismisses Defamation Case Against Hetq

In a significant ruling, Yerevan's first instance court has dismissed the defamation lawsuit filed by architect Arsen Avetisyan against the investigative journalism platform, Hetq. The case hinged on two articles published by Hetq in 2024 and 2025, which accused Avetisyan of engaging in illegal construction practices that threatened the integrity of a protected heritage site. Avetisyan argued that these reports unfairly defamed him and sought damages and retraction. However, the court found the articles to be factual and serving the public interest by highlighting potential threats to cultural heritage. The decision underlined the critical role of journalism in raising public awareness and safeguarding historical monuments. The dismissal serves as a precedent underscoring press freedom and the necessity of transparent reporting in Armenia.