A roundtable on child safety discusses the recent reform and measures for child protection in Armenia

On November 29, 2025, Armenia implemented the new law “On the Rights of the Child and the Child Protection System.” A roundtable held on March 30, 2026, brought together representatives of civil society, social workers, educators, psychologists, psychology, psychotherapists, psychiatrists, lawyers, and international organizations to discuss early experiences with the law’s implementation and to identify emerging priorities.

The discussion focused on two of the most pressing challenges: children’s exposure to digital and online risks and their mental health. Participants explored a range of responses, including the need for strengthened government regulation to address key risks, expanded psychological support services for children, and the inclusion of such services in the mandatory health insurance package.

Alongside regulatory measures, participants emphasized the importance of prevention. In particular, significant attention was given to the role of education and upbringing. The preparation of mothers and fathers for the responsibilities of parenting, as well as raising awareness of emerging risks, were identified as critical areas for action. Many participants also highlighted the importance of a values-based approach to education and upbringing—one that fosters friendship, trust, and truthfulness in relationships among children.

The roundtable was co-organized by the Office of Social Discourse of Armenia, a public affairs initiative of the Bahá’í community of Armenia and New Justice Culture NGO.