A/HRC/41/41/Add.4 objectives and in keeping the aspirations of the people at the centre of the action. Through the exercise of the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association, individuals and societies as a whole can safeguard transitions even when their aspirations and beliefs are questioned. 128. The case of Armenia demonstrates that non-violent transitions are possible and that a wide range of civil society actors throughout the country can play a fundamental role in maintaining the peaceful character of demonstrations. However, the Special Rapporteur is fully aware that such transitions are not predictable and their peaceful character cannot be guaranteed at all times. He therefore believes that the Velvet Revolution and previous manifestations merit a thorough analysis to draw clear conclusions as to its success. 129. While new communications technologies and the use of the Internet played an important role in the planning, convening and following up on the developments of manifestations, the Special Rapporteur considers that the public spaces continue to be decisive places where change materializes. In that regard, he cannot stress enough the need to ensure the protection of the full range of human rights arising in the context of the exercise of the right to peaceful assembly through the adequate management of the situation. 130. Democratic transitions are a process that needs to be supported and accompanied not only at the peak of the transition but most importantly in its aftermath. The Special Rapporteur notes that weakening civil society by imposing illegitimate and unlawful restrictions would endanger the fruits of any democratic transition and therefore considers that its participation needs to be sustained in the long term. VI. Conclusions and recommendations A. Conclusions 131. With the Velvet Revolution, Armenia has proved that democratic transitions are possible through peaceful means. The pathway to a stronger rule of law, independent institutions and development depends on the extent to which a culture of respect for human rights, fundamental freedoms and diversity is deeply anchored in society. 132. After concluding his visit, the Special Rapporteur noted that the early parliamentary elections scheduled for 9 December 2018 had proceeded calmly and peacefully and “enjoyed broad public trust”.14 In the aftermath of the elections, he considers it necessary that ambitious and action-oriented reform programmes and policies are put in place and implemented, with a view to delivering quickly on improvements in many aspects of public life, in particular by creating inclusive social and economic development and pursuing the rule of law and the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms. 133. In the longer term, the Special Rapporteur believes that the new Government, through a participatory approach, would need to plan profound reforms and changes, in particular those related to strengthening the judiciary, the independent investigative bodies and police bodies. He believes that part of the success of the transition will be to ensure that accountability for violations is delivered in a timely manner. 134. The Special Rapporteur wishes to encourage the new Government to keep a broad dialogue open, at the urban and rural levels, and to intensify its efforts to ensure the effective promotion and protection of the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association and other fundamental freedoms. 14 16 See ODIHR final report “Republic of Armenia, early parliamentary elections” (7 March 2019).