Republican Party of Armenia

 Chaired by WAC Board Chairman, Prime Minister Tigran Sargsyan, the Women’s Affairs Council by the Prime Minister met in the Office of Government.

To begin with, the meeting heard a report on the key indicators of women’s political participation and improvement of their managerial skills.

It was noted that seminars had been organized for women on election processes during the local elections of 2012. The seminars were attended by 325 women, every second of which ran for the elections, of which 64% were elected to aldermen council membership. It was informed that the number of women members increased by 2.2% as compared to the previous elections.

The highest number of women running for election was recorded in the Syunik province, where 17.4% were elected. The figures for other marzes are as follows: 12.5% - Lori Marz, 9.3% - Tavush Marz, 8.7% - Armavir Marz. Lower rates were recorded in other areas.

Then the meeting discussed the ongoing preparations for the 5th and 6th regular reports to be submitted in line with the UN Convention Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, as well as issues relating to the development of national gender equality mechanism in accordance with the requirements of the International Council of Women modification problems.

The council next discussed questions concerning the Prime Minister’s Best Businesswoman Awards for 2013. Reference was also made of the problems of imprisoned women in Armenia.

The Prime Minister ordered to set up a working group consisting of representatives from relevant government departments to look at the existing shortcomings and come up with appropriate recommendations.

In conclusion, extending his Season’s congratulations, the head of government stated in part, “I wish you all happiness, love and solidarity. May 2013 bring you immense joy so that you can smile all the way through the year.”