Human Rights Defender Anahit Manasyan expressed firm opposition to the proposed law allowing individuals to serve in the military for either one or four months in exchange for a monetary payment, emphasizing that any form of social stratification is unacceptable.

She pointed out that the Armed Forces still struggle with widespread non-statutory and subcultural relationships, which raises concerns that the associated risks have not been adequately assessed, according to Panorama.am .

“The draft has not been discussed with me, nor was it sent to my office. This is likely because the relevant legislative regulations mainly apply to government-initiated proposals, not to those by members of parliament. However, I am certain we will have discussions on the matter in the near future,” Manasyan stated.

She also noted that if the law is passed, her office has the authority to appeal to the Constitutional Court.

When asked about her position on public statements made by Anna Hakobyan, Manasyan clarified that this falls outside her mandate.

“My authority is limited strictly to public officials and does not extend to ethical guidelines. In contrast, the Corruption Prevention Commission holds the necessary powers in such matters, so I suggest you direct your questions to them,” she said.

The Ministry of Defense has reviewed Civil Contract Party MP Sargsyan's proposal to amend the Law on Military Service, introducing paid short-term service options: 24 million AMD for one month and 18 million AMD for four months. The maximum age for compulsory military service would be set at 32. The law will take effect once approved by the National Assembly.