2013 | ARMENIAN LAWYERS' ASSOCIATION

I. ADDRESS OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE ARMENIAN YOUNG LAWYERS ASSOCIATION

Dear Friends, Partners and Associates,

We have the pleasure to present to your attention the Annual Report on the activities of the Armenian Young Lawyers Association comprehensively covering the activities, implemented and current projects and the annual financial report of the organization for 2013. Highlighting the importance of transparency and accountability in the Organization`s activities towards its beneficiaries, members, partners and donor organizations, AYLA publishes the Annual Report of AYLA aimed at making the activities of the organization accessible for all the interested parties. The Annual Report of AYLA has been for years considered as one of the main pillars of the organization`s transparent activities.

During 2013 AYLA has implemented 5 projects in the scope of which the Organization provided free legal services to the RA population through its branches and Anti-Corruption Centers, focusing on the cases involving corruption risks. It is worth mentioning that in addition to free legal services, the AYLA also provided free barrister’s services to the citizens, which is truly invaluable for the extremely vulnerable groups of the population.

The refugees and Asylum seekers were among the AYLA beneficiaries this year as well. They were provided free legal and advocacy services as well as free legal representation in the state and law enforcement bodies and courts.

At the same time rather extensive work aimed at dissemination of accessible information on the rights among the population was carried out. Hundreds of public awareness meetings were organized and carried out in different rural and urban communities in all marzes of Armenia including the remote villages.

Marking the importance of the fight against corruption in the RA, AYLA has been effectively working towards implementing systemic and procedural reforms. As mentioned above, extensive work has been carried out towards the legal awareness-raising among the population, several trainings and national conferences have been organized directed at the professional development of young lawyers, and in the framework of those the Collection of reports by the best authors has been published and disseminated. This Collection, indeed, has gained a vast interest for the readers. During the past year the “P. Jessup International Law Moot Court” Competition was organized for the 13^th time.

Within a short period of time due to the activities of the AYLA the independent professional news website Iravaban.net, established by AYLA, has managed to gain the love of the society and legal community.

One of the major achievements of the past year is the establishment of the Summer School on European Law in the framework of the project jointly implemented by the AYLA and the German Foundation for International Legal Cooperation (IRZ Foundation). It is the first in its type which united young lawyers, third-year and higher-year students, as well as Master`s students of Law Departments from the RA Higher Educational Institutions, who are interested in the European law and bear European values.

The year of 2013 was notable for the AYLA also in terms of cooperation. Partner relations have been established with various state and international organizations and educational institutions, and this cooperation got a legal reservation through signing of cooperation agreements.

It is undeniable that the realization of the aforementioned achievements and ideas of AYLA is possible only due to the direct involvement of the strong team of AYLA – members and staff; volunteers and beneficiaries, partners and donors, and we express our gratitude to all of them. I assure You that our entire work is valued and brings to the desired outcome, which enables us to further our work with great enthusiasm and dedication.

The Armenian Young Lawyers Association undertakes definite steps aimed at the development of democracy in our republic, consolidation of the legal state and effective fight against corruption. The organization shall further contribute through its devoted work to the protection of the rights and interests of the members of society, as well as to the improvement of the professional skills and capacity of the lawyers of the new generation.

With regards and best wishes,

Karen Zadoyan

Advocate

President of the Armenian Young Lawyers Association

II. INTRODUCTION

The Armenian Young Lawyers Association was established in 1995, in Yerevan. Throughout the 18 years of activities and due to its devoted work the organization enjoys the high appreciation and respect of the beneficiaries, partners and supporters and has its invaluable place in the legal field of the RA.

Since its establishment, shaping the vision of the future and adopting a mission, the organization directs its activities towards the implementation of its objectives and realization of main goals, contributing to the effective fight against corruption, human rights protection, development of young lawyers and the strengthening of democracy.

AYLA soon established partnership relations with a number of state, non-governmental, international and foreign institutions and carried out various projects directed at the implementation of its main strategic directions. It is notable that in several years after the establishment the organization`s services have become accessible in almost the entire republic due to the local offices functioning in the RA regions. Currently AYLA has five branches in Yerevan and the RA regions of Shirak, Lori, Gegharkunik and Syunik. Since 2010 AYLA also operates the national network of anti-corruption centers located in Yerevan and the RA regions of Shirak, Lori, Gegharkunik and Syunik.

By the decision of the AYLA Board of 19 march 2013 the AYLA Professional Committee, Committee on Human Rights, European Integration and International Cooperation, Committee on the Gender-Based and Vulnerable Groups` Issues were dissolved and on their place the following three committees were established: Committee on Legal Education and Information, Committee on Human Rights, Legal Assistance, European Integration and International Cooperation, Committee on Good Governance, Anti-Corruption and Monitoring Issues. The Cultural and Sports Clubs were also dissolved, and instead one common Leisure Club was established. The above-mentioned bodies implemented several activities in conformity with their regulations, and these are presented in the current Report.

In 2003, having the aim to raise the efficiency of the projects directed to the development of law students, as well as to expand their involvement in AYLA activities and to raise the level of their legal consciousness, AYLA established its Law Students’ Division (LSD). The activities of LSD are aimed to facilitate introduction of the international legal experience and improvement of the quality and efficiency of the legal education in the law schools and law departments of the other institutes in the Republic of Armenia. AYLA possesses a rich legal library, and its services are open for the young lawyers and other interested individuals from Yerevan and the regions. To ensure transparency and accountability of its activities and to disseminate information on the organization, AYLA operates its official bilingual website www.ayla.am, and to disseminate information on the activities of the National network of anti-corruption centers, AYLA also operates the official bilingual website of the Network – www.aac.am.

One of the most important achievements of AYLA is the establishment of the www.iravaban.net news website. It is a professional independent website which has been established to contribute to the raising of legal awareness among the public, the development of legal culture, to contribute to the development of professional capacities of the lawyers and to serve as a platform for the publication of scientific works in the legal sphere and the coverage of various legal events in Armenia and the world.

The main directions of AYLA`s activities are the protection of human rights, including the rights of socially vulnerable layers of the population and women`s rights, raising of legal consciousness of the population, fight against corruption in Armenia, assistance in the development of the advocacy institute in Armenia, promotion of legislative and judicial reforms, development and education of the new generation of young lawyers and the contribution in the development of the civil society.

III. MISSION AND VALUES OF AYLA, VISION OF THE FUTURE

The Mission of the Armenian Young Lawyers Association is to develop e new generation of highly professional lawyers, having a modern outlook and moral values, as well as to promote the establishment of the rule of law and formation of the legal culture in the society.

The values of the organization are:

Modern legal culture based upon the heritage of centuries-old global and Armenian values;
Legally educated society which is aware of its rights;
Protected human rights;
Highly professional lawyers and advocates with high moral values;
Strong civil society.

Vision of the future

The Armenian Young Lawyers Association is one of the most influential, famous, powerful and useful organizations in the legal sphere.

IV. AYLA TEAM

All the successes that the Armenian Young Lawyers Association has achieved during its activities are mainly explained by the high professionalism of the core team and the individuals full of new ideas, who duly observe the organization`s values and mission and have their constant unbiased contribution to the development and sustainability of AYLA, coming up with new initiatives and ideas essential for the AYLA`s future. The AYLA team consistently carries out activities directed at the improvement of professional qualities and other skills of its members, as well as holds various other activities. The AYLA team marks the importance of the organizational ideology and values, and therefore is always led thereby during its activities.

V.COOPERATION

AYLA continues its cooperation with state, non-governmental, international and foreign organizations extending its partnerships year by year.

In the past year the Organization held various professional events and thereby established partner relations with multiple civil society and international organizations, state bodies, including the RA Government, regional, municipal and rural government bodies, the National Assembly, the staff of the President of the Republic of Armenia, the RA Prosecutor General`s Office, as well as with the institutions of the judiciary system and other structures.

The United States Embassy in Armenia was established in 1992. The support programs of the Embassy contribute to the long-term economic development, promotion of sustainable social policy and democratic reforms in Armenia. The US Embassy in Armenia is mandated to ensure the daily contacts and relations between the RA and the US Governments, as well as to provide consular services to the RA and US citizens.

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is an independent federal government agency that receives overall foreign policy guidance from the Secretary of State and provides economic, social, development and humanitarian assistance around the world in support of U.S. foreign policy objectives. For over a decade, USAID has been a leading donor agency in Armenia, managing approximately two-thirds of the total U.S. assistance program. Over this time, USAID/Armenia’s programs have evolved from humanitarian assistance towards promotion of long-term economic development, sound social policies and democratic reform. USAID/Armenia works with the Armenian public, the Government of Armenia, non-governmental organizations, businesses, and other donors.

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees was established on December 14, 1950 by the United Nations General Assembly. The agency is mandated to lead and co-ordinate international action to protect refugees and resolve refugee problems worldwide. Its primary purpose is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees. It strives to ensure that everyone can exercise the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another State, with the option to return home voluntarily, integrate locally or to resettle in a third country. It also has a mandate to help stateless people.

In more than six decades, the agency has helped tens of millions of people restart their lives. Today, a staff of some 7,685 people in more than 125 countries continues to help some 33.9 million persons.

The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Office in Yerevan started its operations on 9 February 2000. The mandate of the Office is broad, covering all aspects of OSCE activities in the politico-military, economic and environmental, as well as human dimensions. The OSCE Office in Yerevan contributes to the development of democratic institutions in the country, strengthening civil society and promoting OSCE standards and principles.

The German Foundation for International Legal Cooperation (IRZ Foundation) was established as a registered association in May 1992 on the initiative of the German Federal Ministry of Justice. The establishment was preceded by various inquiries of the transition countries of Central, Eastern and partly also South-Eastern Europe asking the Federal Ministry of Justice for assistance in the upcoming reforms.

The IRZ Foundation implements projects in roughly 30 partner countries with more than 45 staff members at its headquarters in Bonn. Furthermore, the IRZ Foundation has been present with a Berlin-based office in the German capital since 2009.

The IRZ Foundation has been supporting its partner countries in the establishment of an independent and well-functioning judicial apparatus, including procedural law foundations, as well as in the harmonization of their national legal systems with the European Union law.

Integrity Action independent Non-Governmental Organization, Great Britain was founded in 2003 in response to challenges facing the anti-corruption movement with the belief that integrity offers one of the largest opportunities for improvements in equitable and sustainable development. Integrity Action has been instrumental in positioning integrity on the institutional reform agenda and is now established as a principal player in this growing field.

The trustees and senior management of Integrity Action recognize that bribery and corruption are contrary to fundamental values of integrity, transparency and accountability and undermine organizational effectiveness. It also exposes the manifestations of integrity, as well as the specific individuals involved to criminal sanctions in the UK and elsewhere. The organization is committed to a policy of zero-tolerance towards bribery in any form, in respect of the whole of its global operations.

Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Yerevan Office: Freedom, justice and solidarity are the basic principles underlying the work of the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS). The KAS is a political foundation, closely associated with the Christian Democratic Union of Germany (CDU). As cofounder of the CDU and the first Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, Konrad Adenauer (1876-1967) united Christian-social, conservative and liberal traditions. In its European and international cooperation efforts KAS works for people to be able to live self-determined lives in freedom and dignity. KAS makes a targeted contribution to helping Germany meet its growing responsibilities throughout the world.

KAS cooperates with governmental institutions, political parties, civil society organizations and handpicked elites, building strong partnerships along the way. In particular the Foundation seeks to intensify political cooperation in the area of development cooperation at the national and international levels on the foundations of its objectives and values. Together with its partners the organization makes a contribution to the creation of an international order that enables every country to develop in freedom and under its own responsibility.

The “LEGAL ALLIANCE” Law Firm was established in 1997 with the aim of providing quality legal services to its clients and becoming a leading firm in the legal market. The Firm has been developed dynamically since its inception and it now meets the demanding legal requirements of top domestic and international commercial firms. “LEGAL ALLIANCE” Law Firm is now a pioneering law firm in Armenia, providing accessible and highly qualified legal services to individuals and business entities. The Law Firm has a network of offices, which operate nationwide and provides access to its services in the RA regions as well. “LEGAL ALLIANCE” Law Firm is a company providing comprehensive legal services to private individuals as well as businessmen. It works with major multinational corporations and financial institutions, as well as with a broad range of clients including the family and private businesses.

The Law Foundation of Armenia was founded in 2003. The main goals of the Foundation are to assist to the implementation of legal and judicial reforms in the Republic of Armenia, assist to the establishment and development of the advocacy institute in the republic, as well as to improve the professional skills and raise the role of advocates. It also supports to the establishment of the law schools and the law faculties of other institutes of RA, and promotes to the improvement of the quality and efficacy of legal education in the law schools and the law faculties of other institutes.

The International Law Students Association (ILSA) is a non-profit association of students and young lawyers dedicated to the study and promotion of international law. The Association joins the resources of all law schools and strives to make them accessible for all member organizations. Its history is closely linked with its flagship activity, the Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition. Since its creation, ILSA has been an important influence in ensuring that future generations of law students learn the significance of international law. Currently through its programs and support, ILSA provides essential educational resources to future generations of lawyers and other international professionals worldwide, which will contribute to the development of world order and international law.

The European Young Bar Association (EYBA) is a nonprofit making, multinational young lawyers association founded on 23 May 1993 in Prague. The group now represents the interests of over 200.000 young lawyers and is the world’s largest young lawyers` group. EYBA was established to encourage links between and to promote the interests and welfare of young lawyers throughout geographical Europe. AYLA joined The European Young Bar Association in 1998.

AYLA constantly consolidates and expands its links with the partners, as well as promotes the establishment of relations between the AYLA and local, foreign and international organizations. The AYLA external relations are one of the assets of the structure. AYLA enjoys confidence among the partner organizations and this is a guarantee for consolidation of the links and establishment of new relationships.

AYLA attaches much importance and appreciates cooperation with Mass Media, and believes that they are indispensable for ensuring the efficiency and transparency of the organizations’ activities, as well as informing the citizens. The Armenian local and republican media impartially cover all the events organized by AYLA.

VI. AYLA PROJECTS AND IMPLEMENTED ACTIVITIES

“Armenia Against Corruption” project: AYLA carried out the implementation of the project from August 2012 to 31 January, 2014, financially supported by the USAID. The project in essence is the continuation of the “Development of the AAC National Network” project. In the framework of this project, the Advocacy and Assistance Centers (AAC) were renamed into Anti-Corruption Centers (ACC), and began to carry out more targeted activities, working on daily basis and concentrating on the complaints that include corruption risks. The Project activities were implemented in 3 directions:

Provision of free legal and advocacy services on the cases involving corruption risks;
Definition and implementation of systemic and procedural reforms;
Awareness-raising and anti-corruption education of the society.

“Legal Representation of Asylum Seekers”: AYLA started implementation of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Office supported project from 1 July 2011, ending on 31 December 2013. Refugees and Asylum Seekers were provided legal assistance and representation services in the RA state and public bodies, enterprises, law enforcement bodies and courts in the framework of the project. They were provided quality legal advice services on their rights and responsibilities in Armenia as well. The project advocate met with the refugees and asylum seekers in the designated area of the project office, respecting the principle of confidentiality and privacy, compiled written requests, applications and other necessary documents and protected their rights in the court.

“Ensuring Public Oversight and Transparency”. The AYLA implemented this project from 1 April to 31 November 2013. The Project was financed by the OSCE Office in Yerevan. Its aims were to enhance public interest in the system and procedures of the Civil Status Acts Registration Agency through conducting independent and unbiased monitoring and publishing the monitoring results; to improve the current situation of the Civil Status Acts Registration system in order to decrease the corruption risks and other negative phenomena; to develop the capacities of the civil society non-governmental organizations towards the monitoring of corruption cases and elimination thereof. In the framework of the project an observation has been implemented in the scope of which the issues of the provided services among the RA population have been specified to be studied, followed by the observers involved in the project carrying out monitoring in the regional sections of the Civil Status Acts Registration Agency Territorial Offices in Yerevan and the RA regions. Based on the monitoring results legislative proposals were designed on the system and procedural reforms and were presented to the respective authorities.

“Supporting the Small and Medium Enterprises in Armenia”. In the framework of the Project the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Yerevan Office, the AYLA and the Economic Journalists` Club organized a three-day seminar for small and medium entrepreneurs. The Seminar provided an opportunity to the representatives of the small and medium enterprises to raise the problems of the sphere, as well as to learn about the existing governmental assistance programs, including assistance to legislative reforms, legal and financial support. On the last day of the three-day seminar the small and medium entrepreneurs visited an enterprise in Abovyan city and got acquainted with a successful sample of business management.

“Establishment of the Summer School on European Law”. In the framework of the project the AYLA and the German Foundation for International Legal Cooperation (IRZ Foundation) established the first Summer school on European Law in Armenia. The Summer School was held in Aghveran from 8-12 July and the number of participants at the School was 26. These were the new generation lawyers, Masters of law and students of higher courses in the law departments of Armenian higher educational institutions, who passed the selection competition and gained an opportunity to reveal the secrets of the European law. Best Armenian and German experts gave lectures at the School.

The information partner of the Summer School was the Iravaban.net independent professional news website.

“The 2013 Philip Jessup International Law Moot Court” Competition. Students of law schools and departments of law of other higher educational institutions of Armenia took part in the Competition. The team of students representing the Yerevan State University was recognized as the winner of the Armenian National Round. The team took part in the International round of the competition in Washington (Capital of the USA) in April 2013.

The Competition was co-organized by the Law Foundation of Armenia, Armenian Young Lawyers Association, “LEGAL ALLIANCE” Law Firm, and the RA Judicial Department supported the organization of the Competition this year as well.

To ensure the development of the “P. Jessup International Law Moot Court” Competition and strengthen the relations with the law students, the coordinators and members of the Jessup Club in Armenia held several meetings with the law students of higher educational institutions in Yerevan and the RA regions.

The students of the Yerevan Bryusov State University of Languages and Social Sciences will pass an internship at Iravaban.net and the Yerevan Anti-Corruption Center

The representatives of the “Armenia against Corruption” project implemented by the AYLA will hereinafter carry out anti-corruption events at the Yerevan Bryusov State University of Languages and Social Sciences.

The President of the Armenian Young Lawyers Association, “Armenia against Corruption” project manager Karen Zadoyan and the rector of the Yerevan Bryusov State University of Languages and Social Sciences Gayane Gasparyan signed a Cooperation agreement to outline the directions for cooperation.

“Armenia against Corruption” Project and the Human Rights Defender`s Office signed a Cooperation agreement

The “Armenia against Corruption” project implemented by the AYLA, and the Human Rights Defender`s Office will jointly fight for the human rights protection and the reduction of corruption risks in Armenia. This was established by the signed Cooperation agreement which will be in force for 2 years.

Anti-Corruption event with the pedagogues from the RA regions

At the meeting organized with the “Union of School-Centers” Association of Legal Entities, the AYLA President, “Armenia against Corruption” Project manager Karen Zadoyan presented to the 200 pedagogues the activities of the centers functioning in all the RA regions.

The President of the “Union of School-Centers” Association of Legal Entities, Deputy at the National Assembly Ruzanna Muradyan highlighted the importance of the cooperation with the “Armenia against Corruption” Project. It started long time ago while compiling the document on “Rules of Ethics for Teachers”.

The representatives of the “Union of School-Centers” Association of Legal Entities presented to the pedagogues the package of year-end reports for the schools, developed by the working group. It is not dogmatic and the schools will creatively approach its implementation. It is important for the Association to provide methodic support.

According to Karen Zadoyan, the fight against corruption needs political will, high-level anti-corruption perception, social intolerance, decent remuneration both in the public and state sectors.

Cooperation agreement between the AYLA and the Shirak Governor`s Office

Prioritizing the reduction of corruption risks in local government agencies and the urgency of methodological assistance in the improvement of good governance, aspiring to prevent violations of citizen rights and interests and to involve citizens in decision-making process, the Armenian Young Lawyers Association and the Administration of the RA Shirak Region signed a Cooperation agreement on 3 October 2013.

By the Agreement the parties joined their efforts in contributing to the corruption prevention and reduction of corruption risks in the RA Shirak Region, assisting the increase of efficiency of the fight against corruption in the RA Shirak region, contributing to the protection of rights and interests of citizens in the fight against corruption and to the implementation of systemic and procedural amendments of the legislation involving corruption risks.

Conference on the issues and development of the commercial arbitration

On 25 October 2013 the German Foundation for International legal Cooperation (IRZ Foundation), the AYLA and the RA Chamber of Commerce and Industry jointly organized a Conference on the issues and development of the commercial arbitration. The Conference aimed at contributing to the development of alternative ways for commercial arbitration and dispute resolution in Armenia, to make the business environment aware of the alternative ways of dispute resolution.

International Anti-Corruption Day in Armenia

According to Hrayr Tovmasyan, RA Minister of Justice, there are no universal recipes for struggle against corruption worldwide, and from time to time corruption risks may occur even in the countries, which have major achievements in struggle against the corruption.

December 9th is the International Anti-Corruption day. The responsible persons of the field spoke about the activities aimed to curb corruption that are carried out in Armenia during the event organized by the Armenian Young lawyers Association. Representatives from the governmental bodies, international and local organizations, lawyers and advocates attended the meeting.

Karen Zadoyan, President of the AYLA, Founder of the “Armenia against Corruption” Movement believes that struggle against corruption cannot be implemented successfully, if such struggle is not based on the anti-corruption struggle and experience of the developing countries.

Aram Orbelyan, RA Deputy Minister of Justice introduced the Strategic Program of the RA Legal and Judicial Reforms 2012-2016 in the light of the anti-corruption reforms.

The Citizen of the Year of 2013 was awarded

December 9th is the International Anti-Corruption day. Armenuhi Arakelyan was awarded the annual award “Citizen of the Year.” Hrayr Tovmasyan, the Minister of Justice of the Republic of Armenia handed the award, which was established by the National Network of Anti-Corruption Centers and the “Armenia against Corruption” Movement, to Armenuhi Arakelyan`s husband

In 2013, with the support of Yerevan ACC, Armenuhi Arakelyan managed to restore her infringed rights recognizing the importance of protection of her rights, and showed adherence to principles.

The “Armenia against Corruption” Movement gains new momentum in the fight against corruption

Karen Zadoyan, President of the “Armenian Young Lawyers Association” NGO, Founder of the “Armenia against Corruption” Movement, Marat Atovmyan, Head of the Anti-Corruption Center of Yerevan operated by the AYLA and Sergey Sargsyan, representative of the “ArmNews” TV were hosted by the “Banadzev” program at the “ArmNews” TV.

They spoke about the event organized by the “Armenian Young Lawyers Association” NGO on the occasion of the International Anti-Corruption Day, the activities undertaken in this field and successes recorded, as well as referred to the planned activities.

In the framework of the Program they also touched upon the fact that the Anti-Corruption Centers operating in Armenia had united and would act in the scope of the “Armenia against Corruption” Movement starting from 1 February 2014.

“Armenia against Corruption” Movement was awarded an Acknowledgement Letter by the RA Minister of Justice

At the 2013 traditional year-end meeting with the journalists the RA Minister of Justice Hrayr Tovmasyan awarded the “Armenia against Corruption” Movement implemented by the Armenian Young Lawyers Association with an Acknowledgement letter for the active support and a violin hand-made by a convict.

VII. SUCCESS STORIES

In 2013, AYLA implemented various anti-corruption and human rights protection projects, had multiple success stories in the fight against corruption and human rights protection, and this report presents/includes only some of the success stories from the great bulk of work carried out during the reporting period

The success stories were the result of devoted work of the Anti-Corruption Centers and Branches operated by the AYLA.

1. Acquittal Verdict: The building was recognized illegal

Anti-Corruption Center of Shirak region, operated by the AYLA

In 2012, Robert Hovhannisyan, resident of the no. 2 apartment of T. Chartarapet street in Gyumri, started an illegal construction on the first floor of the First entrance, without getting agreement by the residents of the same entrance and without the respective decision of the municipality. It is worth mentioning that the illegal construction violated the residents` rights, in particular, Robert Hovhannisyan was building a toilet in the entrance.

To stop the illegal construction the residents of the same entrance – Donara Manukyan and Eduard Chakhmakhchyan applied to the Police, as a result Robert Hovhannisyan was fined with an amount of 60.000 AMD. Afterwards they applied to the Municipality of Gyumri followed by Robert Hovhannisyan being fined with an amount of 200.000 AMD.

As the illegal construction went on, D. Manukyan and E. Chakhmakhchyan applied to the First Instance Court of General Jurisdiction of Shirak region to protect their rights, and their lawsuit was rejected. At the stage of trial Robert Hovhannisyan`s wife Karine Martirosyan applied to the Municipality of Gyumri, which resulted in the legalization of the illegal construction by the decision No. 1472-A of June 16, 2012 by the Mayor of Gyumri, and on June 18 of the same year it got a state registration at the Gyumri Office of the State Committee of Real Estate Cadastre adjunct to the RA Government (hereinafter referred to as State Cadastre).

In June 2012 Donara Manukyan applied to the Anti-Corruption Center of Shirak, requesting legal assistance in stopping the illegal construction and restoration of the violated rights.

After studying the case, an advocate got involved in its solution. A lawsuit was composed addressed to the RA Administrative Court, based on Donara Manukyan’s suit against the Municipality of Gyumri, Gyumri Regional Office of the State Cadastre and third persons – Karine Martirosyan, Robert, Gohar, Margarita and Harutyun Hovhannisyan’s requesting to invalidate the decision No. 1472-A of 16 June 2012 by the Mayor of Gyumri and the state registration by the State Cadastre on 18 June 2012.

Due to direct involvement of advocate in the administrative case the Court satisfied the lawsuit and fully invalidated the decision No. 1472-A of 16 June 2012 by the Mayor of Gyumri and the state registration of a construction of 2,15 sqm area (outer surface – 3,28 sqm), built next to No. 2 apartment of one of the blocks of T, Chartarapet street, by the Gyumri Regional Office of the State Cadastre on 18 June 2012. Additionally, as a consequence of the invalidation, the Municipality of Gyumri was obliged to destroy the construction with 3,28 sqm area, illegally built next to No. 2 apartment of the disputed block of T, Chartarapet street at the expense of the people carrying out the illegal construction. The verdict entered into force.

It seemed like the implacability between the neighbors was resolved, but the case had its continuation. In September 2012 Karine Martirosyan reported that their neighbor Donara Manukyan had an argument with her over the deconstruction of the illegal building, and applied force intentionally hitting various parts of K. Martirosyan’s body.

A preliminary investigation was carried out and a criminal case was initiated, under which Donara Manukyan was accused with the characteristics of Article 118 of the RA Criminal Code, which is beating.

The preliminary investigation didn`t take several factors into account, and Donara Manukyan`s procedural rights were restricted.

Advocate of the “Armenia against Corruption” Project was involved in the criminal case to protect the rights of Donara Manukyan.

State Prosecutor of the case – Prosecutor of Shirak region demanded from the Court to recognize Donara Manukyan guilty under Article 118 of the RA Criminal Code and set the punishment in the form of a fine of 60.000 AMD.

Due to the advocate`s efforts the First Instance Court of General Jurisdiction of Shirak region made an acquittal verdict on 22 May 2013 and Donara Manukyan was found innocent in the charges filed against her, finding them ungrounded.

The verdict entered into force.

2. The Court rejected the illegal demand against the citizen

Anti-Corruption Center of Tavush region, operated by the AYLA

On 30 January 2013 a resident of the city of Ijevan, Susanna Khachinyan applied to the Anti-Corruption Center of Tavush and reported that on 19.07.2012 she received a notification from the “ArmRusGasProm” CJSC Tavush Branch of Gasification and Gas Supply (hereinafter – Tavush BGGS), by which she was required to pay an amount of 61.116 AMD as a result of recounting of the volume of natural gas consumption, as well as fines were counted and the Tavush BGGS requested a total amount of 123,844 AMD from Susanna Khachinyan. S. Khachinyan refused to pay and the Tavush BGGS applied to the General Jurisdiction Court of Tavush region to confiscate the money. The plaintiff mentioned that the subscriber consumed gas bypassing the recording device, while during the planned inspection of the recording device no interference or violation was found, and a respective act was formed.

Studying Susanna Khachinyan’s case the Anti-Corruption Center of Tavush region undertook the protection of the citizen`s rights. The Center prepared and presented to the Court a response to the lawsuit, grounding the illegality of the demand by the Tavush BGGS. The response to the lawsuit was presented at the court sitting by Susanna`s husband Romik Movsisyan.

As a result the First Instance Court of General Jurisdiction of Tavush region investigated the civil case based on the petition by the Tavush BGGS requesting confiscation of an amount of 123.844 AMD from Susanna Khachinyan, and decided to reject the lawsuit. The verdict entered into force.

In December 2012 Tavush BGGS again applied to the court, this time requesting to confiscate 66,028 AMD from Susanna Khachinyan. In fact, Tavush BGGS, referring to the documents recording the inspection results of the recording device, changed and decreased the amount in the petition, and not having sufficient grounds for its demand, presented a confiscation request against Susanna Khachinyan.

An advocate was involved by the Tavush Anti-Corruption Center to take the case to final resolution, and the advocate formed a response to the lawsuit, presented grounded objections on the Tavush BGGS`s illegal actions. As a result Tavush BGGS decided to take the claim back.

On 26 March 2013 the First Instance Court of General Jurisdiction of Tavush region terminated the proceedings as established by law

3. I believe in the victory of my fight

Anti-Corruption Center of Kotayk region, operated by the AYLA

On 18.05.2013 the beneficiary applied to the Center and reported that he had applied to the Court of general Jurisdiction of Kotayk region with the salary confiscation request. The court made a verdict on 04.07.2012 to confiscate from the respondent – “City of Bee” LLC an amount of 425 250 AMD as an unpaid debt in favor of the plaintiff – Albert Vardanyan. The verdict entered into force on 06.08.2012. After it entered into force, on 08.08.2012 a writ was provided on the beneficiary`s request, which he presented for the implementation to the Kotayk regional office of the Compulsory Enforcement Service (CES) of the RA Ministry of Justice. On 17.08.2012 a decision was made to resume the enforcement proceedings terminated on 14.08.2012. because on 22.06.2012 the Court satisfied the solicitation of the plaintiff Albert Vardanyan and to ensure the enforcement of the lawsuit a ban was imposed on the defendant`s funds and property in the amount of 660.000 AMD – the price of the lawsuit.

Six months later – on 15.02.2013 the Compulsory enforcement officer decided to terminate the proceedings started on 17.08.2012. But on 22.02.2013 a decision was made to resume the enforcement proceedings terminated on 15.02.2013.

The beneficiary informed that the court verdict was not being enforced and he had concerns that the above-mentioned “City of Bee” LLC concealed its property and funds from the CES.

The Anti-Corruption Center accepted the case and sent requests to the RA Minister of Justice, the RA Chief Compulsory Enforcement Officer and the Prosecutor`s Office of Kotayk Region.

As a result on 18.07.2013 the beneficiary visited the Center and presented the bank account statement which showed respectively 240.000 AMD and 180.000 AMD confiscated from the “City of Bee” LLC on 29.06.2013 and 12.07.2013.

4. The employee of the State Committee of Cadastre, who committed a violation, was removed from his position

Anti-Corruption Center of Ararat operated by the AYLA

On 6 May 2013 the citizens of Ararat city applied to the Anti-Corruption Center of Ararat and reported that they wanted to sign a real estate sale contract, but the employees of the Ararat Regional Office of the State Committee of Real Estate Cadastre adjunct to the RA Government (hereinafter referred to as State Cadastre) had requested more money for the contract than established by law. In particular, to provide a joint certificate on real estate they twice asked for 15.000 AMD instead of 10.000 AMD, and afterwards to complete the transaction and provide a certificate of registration of property rights they asked for additional 56.000 AMD. Taking into account the urgency of resolving the issue, the employee of the “Armenia against Corruption” project made a phone call to the hot line of the State Cadastre and informed their employees on the case. The State Cadastre employees arrived to Ararat to inspect the circumstances of the case on spot and held meetings with the coordinator of the Ararat Anti-Corruption Center and the beneficiaries who filed the complaint to the Center on this issue.

As a result, due to the operative measures undertaken by the Ararat Anti-Corruption Center, the citizens didn`t have to make additional payments and become victims of corruption, and the letter of the Head of Staff of the State Committee of Real Estate Cadastre made it clear that the first-rank expert of the Service office was fired and the Operator got a strict notice.

VIII. STATISTICS OF THE IMPLEMENTED ACTIVITIES

In 2013 the AYLA Central and Regional Offices and Anti-Corruption Centers provided the following services in the scope of all the implemented projects.

Free legal advice and advocacy services

In 2013 the AYLA Regional Offices and Anti-Corruption Centers provided to the population free legal advice (including also composing of written documents, representation in various state and local bodies) and services of court representation. Altogether 6223 people applied for such services. 6199 or 99.61% of the total number of people who applied for free legal advice and advocacy services, were physical persons, and 24 or 0.39% were juridical persons.

2837 beneficiaries or 45.59% were female, 3362 beneficiaries or 54.02% were male. 24 or 0.39% were juridical persons.

Statistics by the type of beneficiaries

Type	Number	%
Physical persons	6199	99.61
Juridical persons	24	0.39
Total	6223	100

Gender	Number	%
Female	2837	45.59
Male	3362	54.02
Juridical persons	24	0.39
Total	6223	100

The schematic picture of the provided services by the spheres of law is as follows:

Free legal advice and advocacy services

Sphere of free legal services	Number of beneficiaries per sphere	Percentage of beneficiaries (%)
Labour	367	5.90
Family	273	4.39
Social Security	484	7.78
Civil Rights	1759	28.27
Civil Procedure	395	6.35
Administrative	312	5.01
Criminal Law	108	1.74
Land Ownership	170	2.73
Healthcare	132	2.12
Education and Science	53	0.85
Criminal Procedure	173	2.78
Cases involving Corruption Risks	1069	17.18
Other Legal Issues	928	14.91
TOTAL	6223	100

VIII. FINANCIAL REPORTS ON THE FINANCIAL ASSETS OF THE ARMENIAN YOUNG LAWYERS ASSOCIATION FOR 2013

Other Operating Expenditures

AMD ths.

	2013	2012

Salaries	149,514,648.00	138,068.50
Materials	–	–
Goods	4,757,981.00	5,701.25
Fuel	3,873,999.10	3,420.80
Provision of Services	22,186,724.00	26,441.86
State Duties	176,320.00	4.00
Property Tax	393,902.00	147.79
Rental Costs	8,381,267.00	8,228.00
Postage and Communication	4,721,380.07	6,614.57
Office and other Utilities	2,431,650.00	1,955.99
Bank Services	89,640.92	31.77
Annual Depreciation and Amortization	10,763,424.87	11,769.66
Travel	905,550.00	858.70
Other Operating Expenditures (Audit and Consultancy Services)	2,568,000.00	–
Other Operating Expenditures (Conversion)		1.00
Force Major
Advertisement		424.91
Court Costs	5,400.00	58.71

*Total*	212,773,598.12	203,727,552

IXAYLA BOARD

The Board of the AYLA is considered to be the governing body of the Organization in-between the General Assemblies. The composition of the Board is determined at the General Meeting of AYLA members, which is held every two years. AYLA held its X General Meeting on 4 December 2012. The General Meeting elected the Board of the Organization as follows:

Name Surname		Title
Karen Zadoyan		AYLA President, Head of AYLA Board
David Abgaryan		AYLA Vice-President, Deputy-Head of AYLA Board
Narine Karapetyan		AYLA Responsible Secretary, Responsible Secretary of AYLA Board
Garik Hayrapetyan		AYLA Board Member
Syuzanna Soghomonyan		AYLA Board Member
Liana Harutyunyan		AYLA Board Member
Arpine Yeghikyan		AYLA Board Member
Marat Atovmyan		AYLA Board Member
Robert Grigoryan		AYLA Board Member
Lusine Abgaryan		AYLA Board Member
Karen Kocharyan		AYLA Board Member