Journalistic NGO’s of Kazakhstan reach decriminalization of libel

Majilis of Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan works on improvement of Criminal Code. There was liberalization in draft law, but it has not been in Parliament. General Prosecutor’s Office has been as draftsman, which developed decriminalization of libel and forwarded draft law to the government. There is no any decriminalization of libel in draft law, which has been in Majilis from government.

Union of Journalists of Kazakhstan, International Foundation for Protection of Freedom of Speech “Adil soz”, Representative Office “Internews Network” (Kazakhstan) and National Association of Television Broadcasters of Kazakhstan have made analysis of governmental draft law and legislative proposals; protection of personal non-property rights should be done in civil, but not in criminal order. Only deputies, government and President have a right of legislative initiative in Kazakhstan. International Foundation for Protection of Freedom of Speech “Adil soz” addressed to journalistic community and the society for the support of legislative initiative and proposals.

Please, read this draft law, proposed by NGO’s. If, you agree, think that journalist should not be imprisoned for its professional activity; persuade deputies to forward and uphold these proposals and inform on this process in your mass media.

Explanatory note and legislative proposals of decriminalization of responsibility for defamation was placed on website www.adilsoz.kz in chapter “Draft laws”.