Yerevan/Mediamax/. The European Union admits that in comparison with previous years, the number of ill-treatment cases in Armenian Armed Forces “is steadily declining”.

The joint Document of the European Commission and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy on implementation of the European Neighborhood Policy in Armenia in 2011 issued today reads this, Mediamax reports.

“Civilian control over the security forces is effective. The Armenian Minister of Defence is a civilian. However impunity for human rights violations committed by members of the security forces is a matter of concern. Defence reform, in bringing more transparency, is also highlighting the problem of abuse. The armed forces remain one of the most closed structures in Armenia with frequent reports of abuse, ill-treatment, hazing and non-combat fatalities. At the same time the Ministry of Defence shows a higher degree of transparency by publishing information about each incident. In comparison with previous years, the number of ill-treatment cases is steadily declining. The military officials also constantly assure the public about their readiness to follow up each incident”, the Document reads.