OSCE representative welcomes legislative amendments in Moldova in support of media freedom

VIENNA, 14 October 2013 – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović today welcomed a decision of the Moldovan Parliament that will allow for open public debate and dissemination of information on the topic of ‘non-traditional family relations’.

On 11 October the Moldovan Parliament passed amendments to the Code on Administrative Offences lifting sanctions on the dissemination of public information on ‘non-traditional family relations’.

“I commend the Moldovan Parliament for the steps it has taken. These legislative changes will allow for a broader inclusive discussion on this topic without restrictions on any particular group. It will contribute to freedom of expression and media freedom,” Mijatović said.

“The right to express opinions is a universal and basic human right and as such it must be upheld and protected. I hope that the legislative development in Moldova can serve as a good example for other OSCE participating States in this respect,” Mijatović said.