Within the framework of the "Strengthening Aarhus Centers, for Promotion of Good Governance Principles in Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development " programme implemented by the "Armhydromet" SNCO of the Ministry of Environment of the RA and with the involvement of sectoral non-governmental organizations focus groups have been formed to address issues related to the access to information, public participation, and access to justice in environmental protection.
The programme is implemented with the support of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe. The goal of the programme is to promote transparency and participation in the preparation process of the National Implementation Report through the Aarhus Center.
The first focus group discussion took place on February 10, in which representatives of the Ministry of Environment of the RA also participated.
After greeting the attendees, Levon Azizyan, Director of "Armhydromet" SNCO, emphasized the importance of their experience and suggestions to contribute to the development of a more complete and high-quality report, reflecting both the positive progress achieved in the field of environmental protection, as well as the existing challenges and obstacles.
Marie Chakryan, National Coordinator of the Aarhus Convention and Legal Advisor to the Ministry of Environment, presented the requirements of the Aarhus Convention, the structure of the report, the format, deadlines, and the scope of issues to be discussed.
The groups then discussed, according to thematic areas, the legislative and regulatory processes, practical challenges, obstacles, and achievements that, in their opinion, should be reflected in the report.
The results of the meeting will be incorporated into the content of the report.
The Aarhus Center will then organize similar discussions, involving a broader range of stakeholders, to promote transparency and participation in the preparation process of the National Implementation Report.