2015 | ARMENIAN LAWYERS' ASSOCIATION

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

Dear Friends, Partners and Associates,

For the 15th time we cordially and at the same time with great responsibility present to your attention the Annual Report on the activities of the Armenian Young Lawyers Association covering the activities, implemented and current projects and the annual financial report of the organization for 2015. During the 230 years of its activity AYLA has always been guided by the integrity values. And thus, highlighting the importance of transparency and accountability in the Organization`s activities towards its beneficiaries, members, partners and donor organizations, we publishes the Annual Report aimed at making the activities of the organization accessible for all the interested parties. And notably the Annual Report of AYLA has been for years considered as one of the main pillars of the organization`s transparent activities.

In 2015 AYLA has implemented 4 different projects: Public Monitoring of Anti-Corruption Aspects of the Current Program of the RA Government on the 2012-2016 Strategic Plan of Legal and Judicial Reforms of the RA; Provided 10 Small Grants to CSOs and Mass Media in Yerevan and in the RA Regions to promote implementation of public control and journalistic investigation; Prepared the Shadow Report on Legal Monitoring of the UN Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women, which includes a number of recommendations based on best international practices, which are aimed at the protection of women’s rights and the increase of the level of involvement of women in politics. It should also be noted that the report was submitted to the UN Committee on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

In the past year, AYLA has been operating the national network of anti-corruption centers on voluntary basis. Free legal service has been provided to the RA population through this Network and the Branches of AYLA. Free legal service has also been provided online through applying to the Iravaban.net website as well.

Marking the importance of the involvement of civil society in the fight against corruption, AYLA has been effectively working towards implementing anti-corruption reforms. In particular, AYLA took an active participation in the development of the RA 2015-2018 Anti-Corruption Strategy and its Implementation Action Plan, presenting sector analyses and suggestions. The analyses and suggestions are mainly related to the issues of establishment of an independent anti-corruption body in Armenia, criminalization of the illicit enrichment, adoption of the law on protection and promotion of the rights of whistleblowers, as well as inclusion of the social sphere in the framework of the anti-corruption strategy as one of the target spheres in the fight against corruption. It is due to note about this sphere that on 23 September 2015, the RA Ministry of Justice and CSOs’ Anti-Corruption Coalition signed the Joint Statement on the Establishment of the State – Civil Society Anti-Corruption Working Platform and the Anti-Corruption Working Groups.

In addition the AYLA organized anti-corruption events and public discussions of the 2015-2018 Republic of Armenia Anti-Corruption Strategy and its Implementation Action Plan. The results of these events and public discussions have been summarized and the recommendations were submitted to the RA Ministry of Justice

Due to the activities of AYLA the Iravaban.net independent professional website has found its unique place for the society and the legal community, becoming a demanded platform for the society and the legal community to discuss legal issues and high profile cases.

Last year AYLA and the German Foundation for International Legal Cooperation held the third Summer School on European Law. Another important event for this period of time is the establishment of the Anti-Corruption School for Young Leaders by joint efforts of the AYLA and the US Embassy in Armenia.

It should be noted that 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.

With regards and best wishes,

Karen Zadoyan Advocate,

President of the Armenian Young Lawyers Association

2. INTRODUCTION

The Armenian Young Lawyers Association was established in 1995, in Yerevan. Throughout the 20 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 civil society sector and legal field of the RA.

Since its establishment, and having its vision of the future and a mission, the organization directs its activities towards the implementation of its objectives and realization of main goals, contributing to human rights protection, to the effective fight against corruption, 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. In 2013 the USAID made a decision on the early termination of the “Armenia Against Corruption” project, as a result of which the National Network of Anti-Corruption Centers came together and started to operate the anti-corruption centers on voluntary basis, and these centers are currently located in Yerevan and the RA regions of Shirak, Lori, Gegharkunik and Syunik.

AYLA possesses a rich legal library, which is updated every year. 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.

In 2015, the www.iravaban.net news website established by the AYLA continued its functioning with high rates of efficiency and usefulness. It is a professional independent website which is available in Armenian and in English languages and has around 125.000 followers in its Facebook page, which is popular among the public at large.

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.

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

The Mission of the Armenian Young Lawyers Association is to develop a 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:

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

4. 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, who continue development of their knowledeg in Armenia and abroad, 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.

5. 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 anti-corruption and professional events and thereby established partner relations with multiple civil society and international organizations, state bodies and business structures.

European Union. The European Commission is the EU’s executive body. The European Union is made up of 28 Member States who have decided to gradually link together their know-how, resources and destinies. Together, during a period of enlargement of 50 years, they have built a zone of stability, democracy and sustainable development whilst maintaining cultural diversity, tolerance and individual freedoms. The European Union is committed to sharing its achievements and its values with countries and peoples beyond its borders.

The EU-Armenia relations are regulated through the EU Armenia Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA), which was signed in 1996 and entered into force in 1999. The European Union is officially represented in Armenia by the Delegation of the European Union to Armenia based in Yerevan.

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 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.

Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Armenia. The Federal Republic of Germany was one of the first after Armenia’s independence in 1991 that recognized the Republic of Armenia under international law. Diplomatic relations between the Republic of Armenia and the Federal Republic of Germany were established on January 31, 1992. Thanks to the development of bilateral relations the scope of work of the embassy significantly expanded. The staff of the embassy grew as well.

The US Alumni Association of Armenia was founded on February 6, 2010. The aim of the US Alumni Association is to unite Armenian citizens who participated in professional trainings and educational programs in the USA and to use their knowledge and experience gained in the USA for professional development of Armenia and Armenian citizens through creating effective networks for academics, students and professionals.

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.

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 co-founder 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.

Integrity Action independent Non-Government 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.

UN Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) Coalition. Good governance and the struggle against corruption need great efforts not only from the government but also from the representatives of civil society. The 13th article of the UN Convention against Corruption refers to this where the necessity of the civil society participation in the struggle against corruption is defined.

In order to ensure the implementation of the Convention a number of bodies have been established, among them UNCAC Coalition. The Coalition is a global network of over 350 civil society organizations (CSOs) in over 100 countries, committed to promoting the ratification, implementation and monitoring of the UN Convention against Corruption (UNCAC). Established in August 2006, it mobilizes civil society action for UNCAC at international, regional and national levels.

It is worth mentioning that Armenia joined UNCAC on 7th April, 2007.

UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) is one of the 6 important bodies of the UN founded by the Charter of the UN adopted in 1946. It is responsible for coordinating the economic, social and related work and serves as the central forum for discussing international economic and social issues and for formulating policy recommendation and suggestions. ECOSOC works on the internationally agreed goals to target the development of the sphere.

ECOSOC serves as a central mechanism to ensure the activities of the UN system and the specialized bodies, as well as observes the activities of the expertise in economic, social and ecologic spheres. According to the decision of the UN Economic and Social Council from July 21, 2014 the Armenian Young Lawyers Association is in Special Consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the UN.

Iravaban.net news website (https://iravaban.net/en/) was founded in 2012 and is operated by the Armenian Young Lawyers Association. It is an independent professional website that was created to promote the legal awareness of the society, develop a modern legal culture, assist to the development of professional skills of lawyers, serve as a platform for publishing the scientific papers in the legal field and the coverage of different events in the legal sphere that take place in Armenia and worldwide.

CSOs’ Anti-Corruption Coalition

On 28 November 2014, around 75 CSOs from yerevana and the RA regions adopted the Declaration on the Establishment of the Anti-Corruption Coalition of Civil Society Organozatios, which founded the CSOs’ Anti-Corruption Coalition. The objectives of the Anti-Corruption Coalition of the Civil Society Organizations are:

To raise the efficiency of CSO control over anti‐corruption reforms of the Government,
To contribute to the enforcement and development of anti‐corruption institutional mechanisms,
To contribute to the increased anti-corruption understanding and awareness‐raising in the society, protection of the rights of the victims of corruption,
To enhance the watchdog and anti‐corruption capacities of the CSOs.

AYLA coordinates the Seecreatariat of CSOs’ Anti-Corruption Coalition.

The RA Judicial Department, is a state administrative institution, which provides the full and effective execution of the authorities vested to the Courts, the General Assembly of Judges, the Council of Courts Chairmen and the Council of Justice, and their participation in civil-legal relationships.

The Judicial Department is acting by the Charter approved by the Chairman of the Court of Cassation.

The structural subdivisions of the central body of the Judicial Department are formed of departments, divisions, services and other subdivisions approved by the Council of Courts Chairmen.

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.

Armenian Center for Democratic Education-CIVITAS: The main beneficiaries of the organization are teachers of social science, administrative managers of the school, pupils, parents, active members of the community, experts in human rights and democracy issues, decision-makers in education sector, representatives of civil society and researchers. goals and objectives of CIVITAS are to contribute to the process of educational reform, supporting public education policy and decision-making, enhance and deepen the learning process and teachers’ training, skills and abilities, promote the educational level of the students, etc.

“Arthurs Aghveran Resort” Hotel Complex is located at a distance of 50 km. from Armenia’s capital, Yerevan, by mountain chain Tsaghkunyats, on Dalar River Near Arzakan Village of Kotayk Marz.

The facilities offered by hotel will combine active and healthy rest with ultimate relaxation, in the blissful nature, greens and fresh air. The 60 modern and comfortable hotel-rooms designed in “country” style, sports and entertainment facilities, a restaurant and bars, business facilities.

At any season of the year the complex hosts events that are important for the develoment of the business sphere and contributes to their organization by providing high quality technical services and the necessary equipment.

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.

6. AYLA PROJECTS AND IMPLEMENTED ACTIVITIES

“Multi-Faceted Anti-Corruption Promotion” Project. AYLA started the implementation of the project on 1 February 2014 in partnership with the Freedome of Information Center by the financial assistance of the European Union. The Project aims to increase the role of the Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in promoting anti-corruption reforms and their implementation to build the capacity of CSOs and the media to engage in monitoring and watchdog activities. Anti-corruption training workshops have been organized in Yerevan and the RA regions with the purpose of enabling CSOs and media organisations to better comprehend the issues related to anti-corruption and freedom of information. These activities aim at deepening the existing opportunities for carrying out anti-corruption activities. 10 small grants were provided to the CSOs from Yerevan and from the regions for raising the effectiveness of public monitoring and implementation of appropriate monitoring, watchdog and investigative activities. A sustainable dialogue between CSOs and the Government will be developed with the participation of CSOs, to strengthen the anti-corruption institutional mechanisms. On 23 September 2015, the RA Ministry of Justice and CSOs’ Anti-Corruption Coalition signed the Joint Statement On the Establishment of the State – Civil Society Anti-Corruption Working Platform and the Anti-Corruption Working Groups.

“Influencing the Women’s Rights Agenda” Project implemented with the assistance of the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in the Republic of Armenia by the Armenian Young Lawyers Association in the period of 1 May – 31 October 2015. The main objectives of the project were:

Conducting the Legal Monitoring of the Implementation of the UN “Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women” (CEDAW) in Armenia, including Legal Monitoring of the Latest (combined 5th and 6th) Reports of the RA submitted to the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women in 2014.

Launch a debate on gender balance in local policies through implementing of regional seminars with the participation of local councils.

Free legal services were provided in Yerevan and in 4 regions of Armenia (Shirak, Lori, Gegharkunik, Syunik); advoacates involved in the protection of women’s rights, human rights defenders, representatives of CSOs and Local Self Government were trained. Shadow Report on Legal Monitoring of the UN Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women was prepared. A number of recommendations in the Report were based on best international practices, which are aimed at the protection of women’s rights and the increase of the level of involvement of women in politics.

Anti-Corruption School for Young Leaders project was organized by the Armenian Young Lawyers Association NGO in the framework of the U.S. Alumni Outreach Grants Program with financial support of the US Embassy in Armenia. Due to the three month school the youth made positive changes towards anticorruption environment, in terms of their involvement and the role confidence of youth in the implementation of anti-corruption reforms was increased. A mechanism to ensure the continuity of anti-corruption education was established. The level of anti-corruption perception among the public and especially among the youth was raised. Corruption problems were revealed as a result of deepening and further development of cooperation between the AYLA, Iravaban.net and the civil society. The best experts of the anti-corruption sphere delivered lectures in the scope of the school.

Iravaban.net independent information website is the information partner of the Anti-Corruption School for Young Leaders.

“Summer School on European Law”. In the framework of the project the AYLA and the German Foundation for International Legal Cooperation (IRZ Foundation) held the second Summer School on European Law. The number of participants at the School was 29. The main objective of the Summer School is to provide opportunities for the participants to study the European law, European mechanisms for human rights protection, and the activities of the European Court of Human Rights more deeply throughout the 5 days of the School. The Summer School took place in Aghveran on 14-18 July. 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 2015 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 Armenian-Russian (Slavonic) 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 2015. Students` teams from around 90 countries of the world were participating in this Round.

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. Iravaban.net independent professional news website was the information partner of Competition.

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 AYLA President held a speech at the session of Euronest Parliamentary Assembly in Yerevan. In March 2015 the session of Euronest Parliamentary Assembly took place in Yerevan. On 16 March, Mr. Karen Zadoyan, the President of the Armenian Young Lawyers Association NGO (AYLA), introduced the “Multifaceted Anti-Corruption Promotion” three-year project supported by the European Commission and implemented by the AYLA in cooperation with the Freedom of Information Center of Armenia NGO. According to him the project aims to tackle two important issues: to strengthen the institutional capacity of civil society organizations from the aspect of control and watchdog activities and to influence on the formation of political agenda. After the speech the AYLA President answered to different questions of the participants.

Paris as an International Center for Fight against Corruption. On March 23-24, Paris hosted the Anti-Corruption Network for Eastern Europe and Central Asia (ACN) Plenary Meeting. The participants discussed the reports on anti-corruption fight in Armenia, Kyrgyzstan, Ukraine, Mongolia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan. Representatives from state agencies as well as from the Non-Governmental Organization and International Organizations attended the meeting as well. Armenian delegation was represented by Suren Krmoyan, the RA Deputy Minister of Justice, Tigran Barseghyan, the RA Deputy Minister of Finance, Liana Doydoyan, expert of the “Freedom of Information Center” NGO, Carl Ulbricht, representative of the Anti-Corruption Coalition and Marat Atovmyan, Board Member of the Armenian Young Lawyers Association NGO.

Discussion “The Role of the Civil Society in the Process of Constitutional Reforms” On 15 April 2015, the Armenian Young Lawyers Association in cooperation with Conrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) organizes a discussion on “The Role of the Civil Society in the Process of Constitutional Reforms.”

Dr. Canan Atilgan, Director of the Regional Program South Caucasus of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) held a welcoming speech. He attached importance to constitutional reforms in our country, stressing that they provide new opportunities for the development of democracy in Armenia. Mr. Karen Zadoyan, President, Armenian Young Lawyers Association Karen Zadoyan expressed confidence that the constitutional reforms are necessary for the citizens of Armenia first of all. Then, he reminded that in the framework of the Commission on Constitutional Reforms Issue had to actively discuss the document with political parties, while constitutional reforms must first of all be directed to the public and at the same time representatives of CSOs need to be the target of discussion. Experts from the civil society, governmental and international sectors made reports at the discussion.

International Meeting on Effectiveness of Corruption Prevention Measures. On 18-19 May 2015, An International Meeting on Effectiveness of Corruption Prevention Measures, which was organized by the OECD Anti-Corruption Network for Eastern Europe and Central Asia (OECD ACN) and OSCE, took place in Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia. Representatives of Anti-Corruption agencies from 19 countries, senior officials, and representatives of CSO Networks attended the meeting. Ms Naira Gyulnazaryan and Ms Kristine Aghayan from OSCE Yerevan Office, Mr. Vrezh Kardumyan, the Acting Head of the International Relations Department of the RA President’s Staff, Mr. Karen Zadoyan, President of the Armenian Young Lawyers Association NGO, Coordinator of the Secretariat of CSO Anti-Corruption Coalition of the RA attended the meeting as well.

Meeting in the International Anti-Corruption Academy. On 21 May 2014, Mr. Karen Zadoyan, President of the Armenian Young Lawyers Association NGO, Coordinator of the Secretariat of CSO Anti-Corruption Coalition of the RA; Ms Naira Gyulnazaryan, Coordinator of Anti-Corruption Projects of OSCE Yerevan Office and Ms Kristine Aghayan, Good Governance Program of OSCE Yerevan Office visited the International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA) in Luxemburg, Austria, where they had a meeting with Mr. Ernst Schmid, Head of External Relations and Protocol of IACA. Mr. Schmid introduced to the members of the Armenian delegation the information on Academy’s history, and activities, as well as provided corresponding information about the upcoming trainings and activities of the Academy.

Breaking the Cycle of Impunity: Challenging the Corrupt Authorities: the 16th International Anti-Corruption Conference. On the 2nd of September, the 16th International Anti-Corruption Conference (IACC) started its work in Putrajaya, Malaysia. Over 1000 participants from different countries attended the conference. Representatives from the state bodies, civil society, business organizations, as well as from the international organizations and media represented the vanguard of fight against corruption. The theme of the conference is “Ending Impunity: People. Integrity. Action.”

The Armenian delegation participated in the work of IACC as well. Mr. Karen Zadoyan, Coordinator of the SCOs’ Anti-Corruption Secretariat, President of the Armenian Young Lawyers Association (AYLA); Mr. Artak Saribekyan, AYLA Executive Director; Ms Naira Gyulnazaryan, Coordinator of Anti-Corruption Projects of OSCE Yerevan Office; and Ms Arev Movsisyan from the USAID Armenian Office represented the Armenian delegation.

During the working visits the AYLA representatives conducted a number of meetings among which meetings with the representatives of Anti-Corruption Bodies of Hong Kong, Malaysia and Indonesia.

The State – Civil Society Anti-Corruption Working Platform Established. On 23 September 2015, the RA Ministry of Justice and CSOs Anti-Corruption Coalition signed a Joint Statement on the Establishment of the State – Civil Society Anti-Corruption Working Platform and the Anti-Corruption Working Groups.

In the scope of the Working Platform the parties discuss the issues of more active involvement of civil society organizations in the Anti-Corruption Council; Proper implementation of the Republic of Armenia Anti-Corruption Strategy and its Implementation Action Plan for 2015-2018; Sectoral anti-corruption activities, topical issues and problems in the field of fight against corruption, including the issues of establishment of two joint working groups on criminalization of illicit enrichment and establishment of an effective institutional system for fight against corruption.

Annual Anti-Corruption Award ceremony in Yerevan. On December 9, the International Anti-Corruption Day, and Anti-Corruption Award Ceremony was held in Armenia. During the ceremony awards in 5 nominations: “Citizen of the Year”, “Journalist of the Year”, “Mass Media of the Year”, “Business Organization of the Year”, and “CSO of the Year”.

Mrs. Haykanush Tutunjyan received the award “Citizen of the Year.” An elderly woman displayed principle approach and action to protect her infringed rights. “CivilNet” was recognized “Mass Media of the Year” for the TV Series “From Your Pocket” where the corruption problems in the area of public procurement were raised. Ms. Nelli Babayan, journalist of “Aravot” Daily was recognized the “Journalist of the Year” for raising the corruption issues that exist in business sphere. “The Green Bean” Coffee Shop was awarded the prize “Business Organization of the Year” for voicing the corruption problems in business sphere. Ms. Ani Samsonyan, Student of the Anti-Corruption School for Young Leaders received the award of the RA Ministry of Justice “Young Citizen of the Year” for elaboration of the best script of anti-corruption film. Civic Initiative for the Protection of Rights of Persons recognized as Temporary Disabled was awarded the prize “CSO of the Year” for the protection of maternity rights.

Workshop Event of “The Business Sector in Armenia: Corruption Risks and Integrity Issues” took place in Aghveran. On December 10-11th of 2015, the Armenian Young Lawyers Association, Freedom of Information Center and the CSOs’ Anti-Corruption Coalition, in cooperation with the RA Ministry of Justice and the Anti-Corruption Center “Transparency International,” held a working meeting on “The Business Sector in Armenia: Corruption Risks and Integrity Issues” in the Arthurs Aghveran Resort. Notably this was the first such meeting, which was co-financed by a business company “the Arthurs Aghveran Resort” Hotel Complex. Over 50 representatives from the international organizations that work in Armenia, Foreign Embassies, state bodies, business organizations and associations as well as from CSOs participated in the workshop.

Working Meeting “Possibilities and Challenges of Creating an Independent Institutional System of Fight against Corruption in the Republic of Armenia.”

The main objective of the working meeting was to discuss with participation of all stakeholders the challenges and opportunities for the establishment of an independent institutional system of fight against corruption.

Dr. Piotr Antoni Świtalski, Ambassador, the Head of Delegation of European Union to Armenia, Mr. Andrey Sorokin, Ambassador, the Head of the OSCE Office in Yerevan, Mr. Suren Krmoyan, Deputy Minister of Justice, Mr. Karen Zadoyan, AYLA President, Coordinator of the Secretariat of CSOs’ Anti-Corruption Coalition, Founding Member of the US Alumni Association of Armenia, Mr. Aleksander Shagafyan, Executive Director of the US Alumni Association of Armenia, held welcoming speeches.

Mr. Karen Zadoyan, Mr. Carl Ulbricht, International Expert of the project “Multi-Faced Anti-Corruption Promotion” implemented by AYLA, and Marat Atovmyan, Local Expert of the same project presented the best international experience of the formation of the independent anti-corruption body in the Republic of Armenia.

Providing 10 Small Grants to CSOs and Mass Media in Yerevan and in the RA Regions. In 2015, ten small grants were provided to CSOs and Mass Media in Yerevan and in the RA Regions having the aim to implement public monitoring, watchdog and journalistic investigations on the anti-corruption aspects of the current RA Government Program, the Strategic Program of the RA legal and judicial reforms for 2012-2016, the RA current Anti-Corruption Strategy and the implementation of their activities. Small grants were provided in two rounds.

From the overall number of 10 grantees, 3 NGOs were from Yerevan, 2 from Gegharkunik Region, 2 from Lori Region, 1 from Shirak Region, 1 from Ararat Region and 1 from Syunik Region.

5 grantees were awarded grants for the projects worth up to 1.000.000 AMD, and 5 grantees received grants for the projects worth up to 1.500.000 AMD. After completion of the projects, the CSOs prepared recommendations and suggestions for reduction of the identified corruption risks in corresponding sectors. The recommendations and suggestions were submitted to the corresponding authorities.

7. STATISTICS OF THE IMPLEMENTED ACTIVITIES

In 2015, 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 2015, 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 1822 people applied for such services. 1819 or 99.84%of the total number of people who applied for free legal advice and advocacy services, were physical persons, and 3 or 0.16% were juridical persons.

969 beneficiaries or 53.18% were female, 850 beneficiaries or 46.65% were male. 3 or 0.17% were juridical persons.

Statistics by the type of beneficiaries

Type	Number	%
Physical Persons	1819	99.84
Legal Entities	3	0.16
Total	1822	100

Gender	Number	%
Female	969	53.18
Male	850	46.65
Legal Entity	3	0.17
Total	1822	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 (%)
Labor	182	9.99
Family	187	10.26
Social Security	236	12.95
Civil Law	446	24.48
Civil Procedure	161	8.84
Administrative Law	135	7.41
Administrative Procedure	19	1.04
Criminal Law	80	4.39
Land Law	26	1.43
Healthcare	31	1.70
Education and Science	51	2.8
Criminal Procedure	95	5.21
Other Legal Issues	173	9.5
TOTAL	1822	100

8. FINANCIAL REPORTS ON THE FINANCIAL ASSETS OF THE ARMENIAN YOUNG LAWYERS

Other Operating Expenditures

AMD ths.

	2015	2014

Salaries	84,498,392.00	89,787,326.00
Materials		10,705,491.00
Goods	1,741,798.00	60,000.00
Fuel	1,771,940.00	5,023,523.00
Provision of Services	9,747,741.00	1,500,300.00
State Dues	34,354.12	8,170,736.75
Property Tax	136,274.00	12,000.00
Rental Costs	1,333,209.2	73,744.00
Postage and Communication	4,471,202.00	2,508,991.49
Office and other Utilities	1,141,625.84	5,290,064.63
Bank Services	53,314.36	1,410,243.00
Annual Depreciation and Amortization	4,726,477.00	161,691.12
Travel	243,000.00	7,503,777.89
Other Operating Expenditures (Audit and Consultancy Services)		439,032.00
Other Operating Expenditures (Conversion)		2,456,000.00
Force Major
Advertisement
Fines, Penalties, and Court Costs	39,901.00	5,400.00

*Total*	109,939,228.52	203,727,552

9. AYLA 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 XI General Meeting on 4 December 2014. By the decision of the General Meeting the number of the Board members was reduced from 11 to 7. 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
Syuzanna Soghomomyan		AYLA Board Member
Arpine Yeghikyan		AYLA Board Member
Marat Atovmyan		AYLA Board Member
Robert Grigoryan		AYLA Board Member