Reacting to reports of violent clashes between protesters and police in Yerevan, Natalia Nozadze, Amnesty International’s South Caucasus researcher, expressed deep concern over the level of violence during the latest street rally. The clashes resulted in numerous injuries and detentions, with police deploying stun grenades to disperse the crowd. Nozadze described the violence as “deeply disturbing” and highlighted the need for authorities to respect the rights of protesters and exercise restraint​.

“We call on the Armenian authorities to immediately and impartially investigate what happened, including allegations that the police may have used unnecessary or excessive force. The authorities’ response to protests, even if they escalate into violence, must strictly comply with international law and human rights standards. Law enforcement officials should avoid the use of force. Where this is not possible, force should be used only when it is absolutely necessary and proportionate to achieving a legitimate law enforcement objective, and to the minimum extent necessary,” Amnesty International said in a statement.

During Wednesday’s protests on Marshal Baghramyan Avenue near the Armenian parliament building, a significant number of police officers used brutal force against demonstrators. The police employed stun grenades, which resulted in numerous injuries. Reporters covering the event were also injured. According to the Armenian Ministry of Health, 101 civilians and police officers sought medical assistance due to the clashes. ​

Armenian human rights activist Ruben Melikyan later reported on June 15 that PM Nikol Pashinyan’s government in Armenia had ordered widespread arrests. According to Melikyan’s Facebook post, a wave of mass arrests occurred in various locations, including Martuni, Gavar, Vanadzor, Ujan, and Yerevan.

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