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12 June 2026
“Nordic Days 2026”: Discussion on Women’s Rights and Equal Opportunities
Yerevan, 12 June 2026 - A panel discussion held within the framework of the “Nordic Days 2026” programme addressed key challenges and priorities in the field of women’s rights protection.
The discussion was moderated by the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Armenia, Ms. Françoise Jacob, who highlighted the importance of inclusive dialogue in advancing women’s rights and reaffirmed the UN’s continued commitment to supporting gender equality in Armenia. The Human Rights Defender of the Republic of Armenia, Ms. Anahit Manasyan, delivered remarks noting that persistent stereotypes regarding the social roles of women and men remain a significant barrier to ensuring equal opportunities for women and girls. Ms. Manasyan also drew attention to the issue of early marriages in communities populated by national minorities, stressing that it negatively affects girls’ access to education, development, and the realization of other fundamental rights. She further emphasized the importance of human rights education, noting that in Armenia, particularly within higher education institutions, it does not yet meet modern international standards and requires continuous reform.The discussion also featured Ms. Satu Koivu, Head of Mission of the European Union Mission in Armenia (EUMA), and Ms. Lara Aharonian, Director of the Women’s Resource Center NGO.
“Nordic Days 2026” is being held in Yerevan with the support of the Nordic Council of Ministers, in cooperation with the diplomatic missions of the Nordic countries and partner organizations.
The discussion was moderated by the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Armenia, Ms. Françoise Jacob, who highlighted the importance of inclusive dialogue in advancing women’s rights and reaffirmed the UN’s continued commitment to supporting gender equality in Armenia. The Human Rights Defender of the Republic of Armenia, Ms. Anahit Manasyan, delivered remarks noting that persistent stereotypes regarding the social roles of women and men remain a significant barrier to ensuring equal opportunities for women and girls. Ms. Manasyan also drew attention to the issue of early marriages in communities populated by national minorities, stressing that it negatively affects girls’ access to education, development, and the realization of other fundamental rights. She further emphasized the importance of human rights education, noting that in Armenia, particularly within higher education institutions, it does not yet meet modern international standards and requires continuous reform.The discussion also featured Ms. Satu Koivu, Head of Mission of the European Union Mission in Armenia (EUMA), and Ms. Lara Aharonian, Director of the Women’s Resource Center NGO.
“Nordic Days 2026” is being held in Yerevan with the support of the Nordic Council of Ministers, in cooperation with the diplomatic missions of the Nordic countries and partner organizations.
