As part of the Ministry of Internal Affairs’ reform initiatives, the third phase of police officer certification is set to begin. The process aims to enhance professional competencies and improve social guarantees. According to the ministry, the certification process will officially commence on April 1, 2025, with preparatory activities and the submission of applications starting on December 16, 2023.
The government has approved the procedures for the certification process, including the additional compensation to be provided to certified officers. To facilitate the process, a special guide has been developed for participating officers.
The first phase of certification, launched in August 2023, saw 1,123 officers submit applications, with only 408 successfully completing the stages. In the second phase, 2,900 officers applied, and 595 achieved certification. Currently, 1,900 officers have passed the general testing stage and are undergoing physical fitness evaluations as of December 9.
Minister of Internal Affairs Arpine Sargsyan, in a meeting with the ministry’s leadership and subordinate services, introduced a new personnel methodology emphasizing performance-based evaluations, ethical conduct, and a commitment to serving the public responsibly. She highlighted the ministry’s zero-tolerance policy toward favoritism and corruption, stressing that violations would be addressed with the full force of the law.
Sargsyan emphasized that the new methodology aims to establish a transparent environment where professional skills, impartiality, and accountability are paramount. The reforms are designed to ensure the efficiency of the system and improve the quality of public safety.
During the meeting, deputy ministers expressed their readiness to contribute their expertise to the reform agenda. Sargsyan also underscored the importance of identifying achievements and shortcomings, as well as devising both short- and long-term solutions to ensure the success of the reform efforts.
