I hope that sooner or later, the draft On Defamation will be adopted in Azerbaijan as well as the law On Receiving Information, Aftaltun Amashov, Chairman of Azerbaijan`s Press Council told Trend today.
A sitting devoted to the discussion of the draft On Defamation organized by the Journalists` Union Yeni Nasil (New Family) has been held at Baku`s OSCE Office10 today (on October 10). In conclusion, the Government considered adopting this issue inadmissible at the existing stage.
If to adopt the draft On Defamation, then Articles of 147, 148, 323 (bringing to criminal responsibility for slander, insult, humiliation of the honour and disparagement of the President) of the Criminal Code will loose their force. It envisages prohibiting bringing an action against mass media with the aim to protect the business prestige as well.
Mr. Amashov told that this law has been adopted in EU countries. However, the most of Eastern European countries do not use such an experience. Not long ago, I participated at an international conference held in Sofia, where laws in the sphere of media in Europe were discussed. It became evident that the legislation of the most Eastern Europe envisages arrest of journalists for insult and slander. Then it was made a decision that representatives of the Council of Europe, OSCE should address leaders of these countries to move amendments to the legislation of these countries, Mr. Amashov told.
Mr. Amashov pointed out that he discussed this draft with the MPs of the Milli Majlis (Parliament). According to him, the MPs are against its adopting in the existing situation. I think the overwhelming number of MPs will not support this draft. However, I hope that one day this law will be adopted in our country too, as the draft On Defamation is a very perfect document, pointed out Mr. Amashov.
He also added that since the moment when The Press Council was found, it has received and considered about 750 complaints. And 730 ones were connected with defamation issues. One of the reasons on emerging these problems is the lack of sufficient public condemnation. Decisions made by courts are also ambiguous and even unfair sometimes. The press should create transparency, .present the information about incomes, pointed out Mr. Amashov.
Azerbaijan`s Press Council`s Head: Most MPs Not to Back Draft On Defamation
