On January 25, a meeting-discussion on new legislative amendments was held for the representatives of the unions of legal entities.
The National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia adopted the amendments to the Law on Non-Governmental Organizations on January 16. As a result the problem that had arisen for the unions of legal entities was eliminated.
The bases of the reform were the legislative proposals submitted by the EU-funded “Commitment to Constructive Dialogue” project.
Project Manager and President of the Armenian Lawyers’ Association Karen Zadoyan presented the legislative amendments to the attention of about 10 representatives of unions of legal entities.
As a result of the adopted legislative amendment, the term for reorganization of the Union of Legal Entities (ULE) as a non-governmental organization has been prolonged for two years, till 2020. The requirement for an act of transfer of property, other property rights and obligations has been removed. The requirement to make decisions by the competent authorities of all legal entities member of the Union of Legal Entities has been removed. The requirement to inform it to the Agency of the State Register of Legal Entities of the Republic of Armenia in case of change of the location of the non-governmental organization has ceased as well.
“We are very happy that we have achieved the implementation of certain changes. However, some controversial issues remain, which we will continue to discuss and make suggestions. The important thing is that the re-registration period has been extended and we can do it without a hurry,” Satik Badeyan, President of the Social Enterprises Association of Armenia said.
Arkady Sahakyan, Lawyer of the Union of Information Technology Enterprises noted that the meetings organized within the framework of this project are very useful. “We have understood that unanimous voices and challenges raise the effect and bring changes. It is important that this experience becomes exemplary for the future.”
At the end of the meeting, Karen Zadoyan informed the participants that if they have questions regarding the law, they may apply to the Armenian Lawyers’ Association for legal advice and assistance.
The “Commitment to Constructive Dialogue” Project is implemented with the financial support of the European Union by the “Armenian Lawyers’ Association” NGO in cooperation with its partners; Agora Central Europe o.p.s (an NGO from the Czech Republic), Armenian Center for Democratic Education-CIVITAS, “International Center for Human Development” Public Organization, SME Cooperation Association and Union of Communities of Armenia.