Human rights activist: Armenia sinking into gambling and drug addiction trap

Speaking to Armenian media, human rights activist Nina Karapetyants has highlighted the widespread issue of gambling in Armenia and its negative impact on individuals and families.

She noted that many people in Armenia see gambling as an easy and quick way to make money, leading them to lose everything and resort to selling their property, Caliber.Az reports.

Karapetyants emphasised that these gambling structures are misleadingly advertised, giving the false impression of providing opportunities, while in reality, they fuel dependence and financial instability.

"People are forced to succumb to this misconception because they don't have a steady income and don't see themselves getting a decent income in the near future," she said.

In addition to the gambling problem, Armenia also faces an alarming situation with drugs. The distribution of drugs is rampant, even reaching schools, and contributes to a rise in suicides and murders.

Furthermore, Karapetyants pointed out that gambling has infiltrated the Armed Forces, exposing the risks associated with servicemen having debts and claims against each other. The human rights defender called for greater control and awareness to address these issues effectively.