The “Return to Kashatagh” Non-Governmental Organization, a member of the Civil Society Organizations Network for the Protection of the Rights of Persons Forcibly Displaced from Artsakh, faced a serious legal issue.

The organization’s Executive Director, Karine Movsesyan, discovered that her bank account had been frozen without any prior notice or explanation. Subsequent inquiries revealed that the State Revenue Committee of the Republic of Armenia had imposed an administrative fine of AMD 250,000 on her, citing the organization’s failure to submit its 2023 annual report.

However, the organization had effectively suspended its activities in March 2023 and had carried out no operations during the relevant period, including any financial transactions.

In connection with this legal issue, the organization approached the Armenian Lawyers’ Association (ALA) for professional assistance. The ALA’s lawyers thoroughly examined all relevant legal facts and circumstances and concluded that the organization had no obligation to submit a report for the period in question.

 Consequently, there were no legal grounds for imposing the administrative penalty.

The lawyers prepared a reasoned written submission setting out the arguments for reviewing the administrative act issued by the State Revenue Committee.

As a result, the State Revenue Committee accepted the arguments presented and adopted a lawful decision, revoking the administrative fine and declaring the administrative act invalid.

This case demonstrates that it is possible to challenge legal errors, misunderstandings, and unjust administrative actions when supported by qualified legal assistance and a professional approach.

With the involvement of the Armenian Lawyers’ Association, the organization’s rights were restored, enabling it to return to its mission, despite having temporarily suspended its activities, on a legally secure and stable footing.

The Armenian Lawyers’ Association continues to provide free legal consultations to persons forcibly displaced from Artsakh and to organizations established or managed by them, supporting their efforts to protect their rights.