FREEDOM FOR PRISONERS OF CONSCIENCE
We, faithful children of the Armenian Apostolic Church, express serious concern about the actions of the authorities of the Republic of Armenia, aimed at interference in the life of the Holy Church.
The Church has been a pillar of the people throughout the centuries, preserving faith, unity and national identity even during times of persecution, war and Genocide. Today it needs protection once again.
We consider unacceptable the attempts to split the Church, weaken its role, suppress historical truth, pressure dissenters, and divide the Armenian people. These actions lead to a dangerous division of society.
Condemning the discreditation of the Church, the First Throne of Holy Etchmiadzin and the Catholicos of all Armenians, we demand:
— stop pressure on the Church and society;
— release detained representatives of the clergy and their supporters;
— stop political repression;
— ensure honest and transparent elections.
We call on the faithful to unite around the Church and its Head, protect our spiritual foundation and preserve the unity of the nation.
We appeal to Armenians around the world and the international community to support the protection of the rights of believers and democratic values in Armenia.