Focusing on development

Marine Harutyunyan (MJ ’18) helps advance the rule of law in Armenia

When Marine Harutyunyan (MJ ’18) completed her undergraduate studies in economics and business administration in her home country of Armenia, she was looking to further her career in development. She discovered that Loyola University Chicago’s MJ in Rule of Law for Development (PROLAW) offered exactly the knowledge and practical skills she sought, with courses taught by seasoned practitioners who have multijurisdictional experience in supporting national initiatives aimed at improving the rule of law.

Harutyunyan grew up in a post-Soviet, independent Armenia, which has made marked progress in its democratic development over the past three decades. Still, the nation is plagued by corruption and both political and economic crises triggered by the pandemic and long-standing conflict in the Nagorno-Karabakh region. Prior to joining PROLAW, Harutyunyan worked with a foundation engaged in increasing the social protection of children through the provision of school meals. Through the PROLAW program, Harutyunyan gained key skills in drafting project proposals, applying the theory of change, and managing projects, which led her to a promotion to project manager after she earned her MJ and returned to her foundation in Armenia.

“To professionals of non-legal backgrounds like myself, the PROLAW MJ provides a core understanding of the law and rule of law, and how rule of law … can be applied to enhance sustainable development in a given country.”

Today, Harutyunyan works as a monitoring and reporting officer for the International Development Law Organization (IDLO), a global intergovernmental organization devoted to promoting the rule of law to advance peace and sustainable development. IDLO works to strengthen the integrity of Armenia’s criminal justice system, focusing on anti-corruption, and Harutyunyan’s primary role is assisting in the pre-intervention exercises to establish relevant data, design and implement internal monitoring procedures, generate internal and external reports, and support the program team in planning and implementing projects.

Harutyunyan says that it is exciting to be part of the positive changes that her country is undergoing. She believes that with dedication, a sharp vision, and her honed skills and in-depth understanding of the field of development, she can have real impact in helping Armenia achieve a peaceful, resilient, and just future.

(June 2023)