Armenia to ban servicemen from using smartphones, joining rallies

Armenian military personnel will be banned from using smartphones while on duty.

The relevant draft was presented at the meeting of the Armenian parliament’s Defence and Security Committee, Caliber.Az reports, quoting Armenian media.

The amendments to the law "On military service and the status of a military man" and the Code of Administrative Offences were submitted by Armenian Deputy Defence Minister Arman Sargsyan.

"The exception [regarding the use of smartphones] will be cases determined by the head of the state authorised agency," Sargsyan said.

In addition, a ban will also be applied on servicemen for participating in rallies or other similar events involving public discontent - in military or other official uniforms.

In addition, military personnel will not be allowed to report, discuss service data, or publish videos and photos in the media and on the internet without written permission from their superiors.

Another new measure is that contract servicemen will have the opportunity to serve for up to 10 more years after reaching the threshold age (annual renewal). Former senior and superior officers will also have the opportunity to return to service as contract servicemen.

An amendment to the Administrative Code envisages a fine for the illegal wearing of a valid uniform by citizens who are not entitled to do so.

Speaking of improving discipline in the armed forces, Arman Sargsyan said that after the changes are introduced, the time conscripts spend in disciplinary companies (for disciplinary offences) will not be deducted from their service term.