The Big Brother wants more
A highly controversial bill aiming to expand police surveillance powers has been introduced in the Armenian parliament, sparking concerns about increased state intrusion into privacy. The proposal, led by the parliament's Committee on Defence and Security, mandates that shops, cafes, restaurants, and other small businesses with at least 50 square metres of commercial space install security cameras outside their premises.
These systems would provide the police with real-time 24/7 surveillance, reporting back to an electronic systems management centre. The Ministry of Interior Affairs argues that the measure is necessary to combat rising crime rates in Armenia. However, the bill has drawn criticism from national privacy experts and the justice ministry's Personal Data Protection Agency, citing significant risks to personal data security and concerns over disproportionate privacy restrictions. Despite these objections, the Ministry of Justice has endorsed the bill.
Of particular concern are the potential impacts on individual privacy rights and doubts about the police's capacity to manage such extensive surveillance. A December 2023 survey indicated that 62% of Armenians are satisfied or somewhat satisfied with police work, although satisfaction does not necessarily equal trust. Another 2021 survey revealed that 49% of Armenians fully distrust the police.
The year 2021 was also when the current government’s police reform introduced a patrol system, viewed as controversial due to instances of police violence during protests. International human rights organisations such as Freedom House, Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, and Transparency International have repeatedly voiced concerns about the escalation of police violence in Armenia during recent anti-government demonstrations.