At the A.D. Sakharov Armenian Human Rights Protection Centre, we believe that no woman should have to choose between her career and her family. As part of our 2024-2025 research initiatives, our Syunik branch has published a critical study titled: “Pregnancy at Work: Protection of Rights or Discriminatory Approach?”
Authored by Anahit Amaryan, this report dives into the systemic challenges faced by pregnant women in the Armenian labor market and provides a roadmap for reform.
Despite legal protections, many women in Armenia still face “hidden discrimination” during pregnancy. Our analysis highlights three major areas of concern:
- Illegal Dismissals: Employers often find “creative” ways to terminate contracts or pressure pregnant employees to resign.
- Lack of Awareness: Many women are unaware of the specific protections guaranteed to them under the RA Labor Code.
- Inadequate Oversight: There is a critical need for stronger state supervision to ensure businesses comply with maternity laws.
The Sakharov Centre isn’t just identifying problems—we are proposing solutions. Our expert opinion calls for:
- Legal Literacy Programs: Specialized training for both employees and employers to understand their rights and duties.
- Legislative Reform: Clarifying the “burden of proof” in the Labor Code so that employers must prove a dismissal was not based on pregnancy.
- Strengthened Inspections: Increasing funding and staff for labor inspection bodies to better monitor workplace discrimination.
Read the Full Report in Armenian here: