In our Meet our Members series, this month we talked to Mamikon Hovsepyan (He). Mamikon is Communications Director for Pink Human Rights Defender in Armenia. We asked him about the organisation’s role in defending LGBT+ rights in Armenia and the events they are working on as part of LGBT+ History Month.
What is the mission of Pink Armenia?
Pink Armenia Human Rights Defender NGO [hereafter Pink Armenia] aims to create a safe space for LGBT+ people by promoting well-being and protection in all spheres of life. We were founded in 2007 by members of the LGBT+ community. We serve and support the needs of the community, promote LGBT rights and advocate for change in public policy around LGBT+ issues.
Why is it so important to have an LGBT organisation in Armenia?
The Armenian LGBT+ community faces significant challenges. Armenia remains a conservative society where LGBT+ individuals often experience widespread discrimination and social stigma. Some members experience marginalisation, harassment, and even violence. There is only limited legal protection and little recourse to justice.
What is Pink Human Rights Defender offering its members?
Pink Armenia, as an LGBT+ organisation can provide much-needed legal, social and psychological support. We offer safe spaces for those affected which include crucial mental health resources and community support. We also seek to address the health and well-being of LGBT+ individuals who often face barriers to adequate care.
Pink Armenia also works to tackle the causes of discrimination by raising public awareness, combatting prejudice, and pushing for legal reforms. In a country where visibility for LGBT+ people is low and negative societal attitudes prevail, such organisations are essential for promoting tolerance, equality, and advocate for human rights.
What current projects and events are you working on this month?
This month, Pink Armenia is actively engaged in celebrating LGBT+ History Month. This is a time dedicated to recognising the struggles and achievements of the LGBT+ community. Originally introduced in the United States in 1994, the celebration was timed around October 11, which marks the Coming Out Day, a significant moment for the visibility and empowerment of LGBT+ individuals. For Armenia, LGBT+ History Month is particularly important, as it allows us to reflect on the progress made since the movement began in 1998 with the founding of crucial organisations created by queer Armenians in the diaspora.
As part of this year’s campaign, Pink Armenia is focused on recalling key milestones in the Armenian LGBT+ movement, such as the decriminalisation of same-sex relations in 2003. Throughout October, we will publish a series of posts on our social media channels, highlighting these important events and their influence on advancing rights for the community in Armenia. This campaign is not only a celebration of progress but also an opportunity to engage with ongoing challenges and work toward a more inclusive and just future for all.
You can find out more about Pink Human Rights Defender NGO and their History Month publications on their website.
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