The Armenian Lawyers’ Association (ALA) issued a statement on 23 March stating that taking into account the state of emergency in the Republic of Armenia due to the coronavirus, which was declared in 16 March, and a number of restrictions on labor issues, will provide free legal advice on labor relations to the citizens who will present their issues to the organization.

Ms Syuzanna Soghomonyan, ALA Programs Manager says that in the period of 16 March to 15 May, the lawyers of the organization answered to 902 questions from citizens.

“The questions were various, mostly related to anti-crisis programs – 486 out of 902 questions, we received more than 100 questions about state benefits and the social sphere in general. This allows us to think that in reality we have a problem of raising the legal awareness of the citizens, many people do not know their rights and especially in the time of crisis, it is felt more obviously. It should be noted that counseling requires a lot of time. Many of the questions require an individual approach and in some cases the lawyers study in detail the data provided by the citizens in order to answer the question,” Syuzanna Soghomonyan said.

In addition to the ALA Yerevan office, consultations were provided by the regional offices as well. The coordinators of the offices of Vanadzor, Shirak and Syunik marzes of the organization were also involved in this work.

The organization received not only questions from the citizens, but also complaints and suggestions. In addition to individuals, organizations have addressed their questions as well. The companies also sent their questions through the Bizprotect.am whistleblowing platform launched by the Armenian Lawyers’ Association. In some cases it was necessary to send a note to the Commandant’s Office.

Syuzanna Soghomonyan, emphasized that consultations were provided and are currently being provided free of charge, thus the structure is supporting both the state and the society.