The European Parliament hosted a hearing dedicated to the prevention of domestic violence, the promotion of innovative digital tools, and the strengthening of cooperation in the field of women’s protection and empowerment. A key highlight of the event was the presentation of the Armenian Safe YOU application, an internationally recognized digital platform designed to prevent violence against women.
The hearing was organized through the joint efforts of the Representation of Armenia to the EU and Member of the European Parliament Dainius Žalimas.
In a video message to the participants, EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos commended Safe YOU’s contribution to combating violence against women and raising public awareness of the issue. She underscored the importance of such innovative tools in advancing women’s rights and protection.
Armenia’s Ambassador to the EU, Tigran Balayan, opened the event by highlighting Armenia’s dual identity as both a nation with ancient heritage and a forward-looking country embracing innovation. He stressed that women in Armenia today play a key role in policymaking, justice, and reforms, underlining the country’s commitment to gender equality and innovation-driven progress.
Safe YOU’s founder, Mariam Torosyan, presented the app’s development, functionality, and its growing international availability across Europe, the Middle East, and other regions. She emphasized that Safe YOU has been officially recognized by the UN Secretary-General as a Digital Public Good, underscoring its global significance in protecting women and empowering communities.
Opening remarks were also delivered by MEP Dainius Žalimas, Vice-Chair of the Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality; Birgit Van Hout, Head of the Brussels Office of the UN Population Fund; as well as other leading experts in human rights and gender equality.
The hearing was attended by Members of the European Parliament, representatives of EU institutions, the Council of Europe, UN agencies, diplomats, NGOs, and academia. Participants stressed that domestic violence remains a pressing challenge requiring effective prevention, protection, and response mechanisms, and welcomed Armenia’s experience and digital innovation as a valuable contribution to European and global efforts.
