Armenia ratifies the ILO Convention on Violence and Harassment

© Alioune Ndiaye / ILO

GENEVA (ILO News) – On 4th December 2025, H.E. Ms Hasmik Tolmajian, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Republic of Armenia to the United Nations Office in Geneva and other International Organizations, deposited the instrument of ratification of the Violence and Harassment Convention, 2019 (No. 190), with the Director-General of the ILO, Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo.

In depositing the instruments of ratification, the Ambassador stated: “Armenia’s ratification of the International Labour Organization Convention on Violence and Harassment, 2019 (No. 190) is a milestone that underscores our country’s unwavering commitment to ensuring dignity, equality and safety in the world of work. We firmly believe that no worker should face violence or harassment, and that protecting people from such practices is essential for building inclusive, fair, and sustainable societies. By embracing this landmark convention, Armenia reaffirms its dedication to advancing gender equality, safeguarding fundamental rights, and fostering workplaces where respect and justice prevail. We look forward to working hand in hand with the ILO and our international partners to translate this commitment into meaningful action and to contribute to a global culture of decent work for all”.

The Director-General of the ILO welcomed the ratification of this instrument by Armenia and stated that: “I warmly welcome Armenia’s ratification of the Violence and Harassment Convention, 2019 (No. 190). By taking this important step, Armenia is sending a clear message that violence and harassment have no place in the world of work. This ratification will strengthen protection for all workers and other persons in the world of work. The ILO stands ready to continue supporting the Government of Armenia, together with employers’ and workers’ organizations, to ensure the effective implementation of this landmark Convention”.

Adopted in 2019, Convention No. 190 provides the first international framework to prevent and eliminate violence and harassment in the world of work, including gender-based violence and harassment, and to protect the dignity and rights of all workers and other persons in the world of work.

To support the effective application of Convention No. 190 in Armenia, the ILO has been providing technical assistance to the Government and the social partners. This has included support for the 2023 amendments to the Labour Code, as well as a gap analysis of national legislation vis-à-vis Convention No. 190 and the facilitation of tripartite dialogue to validate its findings and agree on policy recommendations.

To date, Armenia has ratified 30 Conventions. For additional information, please refer to NORMLEX.