What is the legality of cockfighting in Armenia?
Cockfighting is illegal in Armenia. The country has strict animal welfare laws in place, which prohibit any form of animal cruelty, including cockfighting. The government of Armenia has taken significant steps to ensure that these laws are enforced and that the perpetrators are brought to justice.
What is a brief overview of cockfighting in Armenia?
Cockfighting is a cruel and inhumane sport that involves two roosters, also known as gamecocks, being placed in a small ring to fight to the death or until one is severely injured. This barbaric practice has been outlawed in many countries worldwide, including Armenia. Despite its illegality, cockfighting still takes place in some remote areas of the country, often as part of underground gambling rings.
What is cockfighting known as locally in Armenia?
Locally, cockfighting in Armenia is known as աքաղաղերի մարտավարություն (Aqağağeri martavarut’yun). The term is derived from the Armenian words for rooster and battle, reflecting the violent nature of the sport.
What are the penalties and enforcement measures in Armenia?
The penalties for participating in, organizing, or promoting cockfighting in Armenia are severe. They include:
- Fines ranging from 200,000 to 1,000,000 Armenian drams (approximately $400 to $2,000).
- Imprisonment for up to two years.
- Confiscation of property and assets related to the illegal activity.
- Prohibition of keeping or breeding birds for a specified period.
Armenian law enforcement agencies, including the police and the Ministry of Environment, are responsible for enforcing these penalties. They regularly conduct raids on illegal cockfighting venues and arrest individuals involved in the activity. Additionally, the Armenian government has been working to raise public awareness about the cruelty of cockfighting and the consequences of participating in it.
Several government laws and regulations in Armenia address animal welfare and specifically prohibit cockfighting. Some of these laws and their respective links are:
| Law/Regulation | Description | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Animal Welfare Law | This law sets out the general principles of animal welfare and protection in Armenia, including the prohibition of animal cruelty and abuse. | https://www.arlis.am/documentview.aspx?docid=122882 |
| Article 258 of the Criminal Code | This article specifically criminalizes organizing, participating in, or promoting cockfighting, with penalties including fines and imprisonment. | https://www.arlis.am/documentview.aspx?docid=63540 |
| Law on the Treatment of Animals | This law establishes the basic principles for the humane treatment of animals, including a ban on using animals in cruel sports such as cockfighting. | https://www.arlis.am/documentview.aspx?docid=114554 |
In conclusion, cockfighting is an illegal and cruel activity in Armenia, with strict laws in place to protect the welfare of animals. The Armenian government is committed to eradicating this inhumane practice and has implemented severe penalties for those who engage in or promote it.