Armenian Family Protests After 20-Year-Old Sole Caregiver is Hastily Drafted

Narek Tadevosyan lived in the village of Nizami in a makeshift trailer with his deaf and mute mother, who holds a second-degree disability status. The young man worked as a day laborer to meet his family's basic needs. According to his relatives, both his medical examination and military conscription were rushed and completed within a single day.

Health and Social Concerns

The conscript's brother-in-law, Robert Shadyan, explained that the 20-year-old had previously been granted a temporary deferment from service. His sudden mobilization has left the family deeply concerned for his well-being.

Speaking to Azatutyun (Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty), Shadyan stated, "Narek has multiple health problems. He suffers from high blood pressure, has some mental health challenges, and struggles with comprehension."

Officials at the local military commissariat suggested that Tadevosyan's sister should take over the care of their mother. However, the family argues this is impossible, as the sister already manages a large household and faces her own health challenges.

"His sister has five minors at home, three pensioners, a sixth child is on the way, and her health is currently poor," Shadyan added.

Legal Framework and Next Steps

Seeking a resolution, Tadevosyan's relatives have officially appealed to both the Ministry of Defense and the Human Rights Defender's Office.

Human rights advocate Nazeli Movsesyan clarified the legal nuances. By Armenian law, a conscript is exempt from service if their parents are over 65 or have severe functional limitations, provided they are the only child. Because Tadevosyan has a sister, this exemption does not automatically apply. However, Movsesyan noted that the government has the authority to grant an exception based on unforeseen circumstances, given that the mother is entirely incapable of caring for herself. The Ministry of Defense has not yet commented on the case.