Several NGOs in Armenia today issued a joint statement opposing a government proposal to allow citizens conscripted for mandatory military service to pay 24 million drams (US$60,000) and be discharged several months early.

The NGOs say the proposal discriminates against those not able to pay and will deepen social inequality in the country.  

Signing the statement are the Law Development and Defense Fund, Open Society Foundations-Armenia, Transparency International Anti-Corruption Center, Protection of Rights Without Borders NGO, and the Helsinki Civic Assembly Vanadzor Office.

Armenia's defense ministry supports the proposal, arguing the funds will be used to increase the salaries of contract servicemen in a bid to improve living conditions.

Military service in Armenia is mandatory for male citizens aged 18 to 27 and lasts two years. Conscripts are drafted twice a year pursuant to a government decision.