To mark Motherhood and Beauty Day, an official holiday in Armenia celebrated every April 7, the country’s Human Rights Defender Anahit Manasyan issued a statement calling for the protection and promotion of women’s rights and overcoming patriarchal stereotypes in the country.

“Overcoming stereotypes, creating equal opportunities, ensuring women's participation in the decision-making process, promoting women's potential in social and political life is key to the successful implementation of the process,” Manasyan writes.

April 7 also marks the Feast of the Annunciation in the calendar of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Women are traditionally given flowers or gifts to mark the day.