Freedom of Speech or Ban on Criticism? Kyrgyzstan Tightens Information Laws

Kyrgyzstan's President Sadyr Japarov has signed a law imposing fines for defamation and insults in the media and on social networks. The document will come into effect on February 10, reports NewsBox.

The head of Kyrgyzstan, Sadyr Japarov, approved a bill that introduces penalties for spreading defamatory and insulting information in the media and on social networks. This was reported by the Kyrgyz service of Radio Liberty. The new law will take effect on February 10.

According to amendments to the Administrative Offenses Code, individuals could face fines of 20,000 soms (approximately $230), while legal entities could be fined 65,000 soms (over $740) for such actions. Law enforcement agencies will draw up administrative reports and forward them to the court.

The document was proposed by the Ministry of Culture, Information, Sports, and Youth Policy of Kyrgyzstan in April 2024. According to the ministry, the changes are linked to an increase in the spread of offensive and defamatory information online and in the media.

Kyrgyzstan’s ombudsman, Jamilya Jamanbayeva, opposed the amendments, arguing that they could restrict freedom of speech. She insisted on revising the law to protect citizens' rights.

Commenting on the adoption of the document, Sadyr Japarov assured that freedom of speech would be preserved in the country. He urged social media users and journalists to disseminate only verified information and to avoid making baseless accusations.