Prof. Anne Marie Thake invited to lecture during International Human Rights Day

Yerevan, 10–11 December 2025

In the context of International Human Rights Day, Professor Anne Marie Thake participated as a guest speaker and panellist at the conference “Ethical Standards for Ensuring Equality and Non-Discrimination”, held in Armenia on 10 December 2025. The event brought together policymakers, experts, and practitioners to discuss the role of ethical standards in promoting equality and safeguarding fundamental human rights.

On 11 December 2025, Professor Thake continued her official programme with a visit to Yerevan State University (YSU), organised within the framework of International Human Rights Day commemorations. The visit was conducted in the presence of the Human Rights Defender of the Republic of Armenia, Ms Anahit Manasyan, and the UNDP Resident Representative in Armenia, Ms Natia Natsvlishvili, and focused on strengthening dialogue on human rights education and awareness.

During the visit, Professor Thake met with the Rector of Yerevan State University, Mr Hovhannes Hovhannisyan, and was briefed on the University’s academic profile and strategic priorities. She subsequently addressed students and academic staff, delivering a lecture entitled “Human Rights Education as a Key Guarantee for Strengthening Ethical Standards and Overcoming Discrimination, Stereotypes, and Intolerance.”

In her intervention, Professor Thake highlighted international and national human rights protection frameworks, identified key challenges in implementation, and underlined the importance of effective legal and institutional mechanisms for safeguarding fundamental rights. She emphasised the role of education as a cornerstone of ethical governance, equality, and non-discrimination.

The events were organised by the Human Rights Defender’s Office under the European Union–funded ATHENA project (Advancing the Human Rights Agenda and Enhancing National Authorities), implemented in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).