The concept of an "Independent Living Center" will now be legally defined in Armenia as an organization that provides services to people with disabilities. The update was announced by Minister of Labor and Social Affairs Arsen Torosyan during a parliamentary session presenting amendments to the Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

“We are defining the 'Independent Living Center' as a new concept and service provider for people with disabilities. Regardless of legal form, such organizations need to be regulated,” Torosyan said, according to Armenpress.

He added that current legislation permits funding for assistive devices only through the state budget, which often creates obstacles. The proposed changes would allow for financial compensation for assistive tools not only from public funds but also from alternative sources.

Torosyan cited the Zinapah Foundation as a model case, noting its willingness to fund prosthetics for upper and lower limb amputees wounded during war.

He also addressed the complexity of the current system for assigning personal assistants to people with disabilities who study or work. Currently, the process involves two separate contracts between the state and the assistant, and between the state and the recipient. The amendment proposes a single tripartite contract involving the individual, the assistant, and the Unified Social Service.

MP Zaruhi Batoyan, a co-rapporteur, added that Independent Living Centers have existed globally since 1972, particularly gaining traction in Europe.

“Their main goal is to empower people with disabilities to make decisions about their own lives and be fully included in all aspects of society,” she said. “These centers are typically founded by people with disabilities, but Armenia’s first center will be established and supported by the government. Its operating principles and framework will be developed collaboratively and inclusively.”