Statement of the Delegation of Armenia 6th Fonim on Minority Issues 26-27 November 2013, Geneva Thank you Madam Chairperson, First I would like to join previouS speakers and to thank panellists for their comprehensive presentations. Armenia gives great importance to the protection of the rights of minorities, especially those with different faith and religion. The Constitution of Armenia approved by the 2005 referendum most precisely defines the right to freedom of religion or belief, declaring that "freedom of activities for all religious organizations in accordance with the law shall be guaranteed in the Republic of Armenia". The evidence of, maintenance of religious pluralism in the country is well-demonstrated by following comparison: in 1997 14 religious organizations were registered as legal entities in Armenia. Currently, there are about 70 religious organizations in the State Registry of Armenia, representing diverse religious movements and directions. In order to provide equal opportunity for members of religious minorities to perform their duties by serving military or alternative service, the law on alternative service has been adopted in Armenia. However, for last two years, cases of refusal from alternative service have become frequent. This issue continuously remained under the attention of relevant State structures and the Ombudsman,.. who submitted proposals on the improvement of a legislative field and its practical applications. On May 2013 new amendments to the law on alternative service have been adopted,