
On 7 January, 2025, the European Court of Human Rights issued a landmark ruling in Minasyan v Armenia, concerning the rights violations of fourteen activists who supported Conchita Wurst's Eurovision victory.
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The Minasyan v Armenia Case: Upholding Human Rights for Armenian Activists
Introduction to the Case
On 7 January , 2025, the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) delivered a pivotal judgment in the case of Minasyan v Armenia. This landmark ruling, which involved fourteen Armenian nationals, including LGBTQ and women’s rights activists, revolved around the rights violations experienced after they openly supported Conchita Wurst‘s Eurovision victory. The court’s findings highlight not only the importance of protecting activists but also the consequences of hate speech perpetuated by media sources.
Context of the Judgment
The dispute traces back to a series of demeaning articles published by the Iravunk newspaper in 2014. The editor-in-chief labeled the activists «enemies of the state», asserting that they belonged to an «international homosexual lobby» aiming to undermine Armenia. This rhetoric intensified following their response to hateful comments during the Eurovision contest, showcasing the challenges faced by those advocating for human rights in Armenia.
Implications for Human Rights in Armenia
The ECHR’s decision highlighted severe violations of Articles 8 and 14 of the European Convention on Human Rights, emphasising the state’s failure to protect the applicants from anti-LGBTQ hate speech. The ruling serves as an important reminder of the need for robust protections for activists in Armenia and the essential role of the judiciary in upholding human rights. In a climate where hateful narratives are further legitimised, the Minasyan ruling offers hope for a shift towards greater inclusivity and dignity for all Armenians, regardless of their sexual orientation.