OSCE Media Freedom Representative concerned by new amendments to Anti-Terrorism Law in Kyrgyzstan

VIENNA, 6 May 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, expressed his concerns today about a set of new amendments to the law on Countering Terrorism, as well as changes to the Code of Civil Procedure, in Kyrgyzstan.

On 31 March, the National Committee of State Security put forward amendments, which include a number of provisions which could negatively impact the media’s activities and freedom of expression in the country. In particular, the draft stipulates that the media may be sanctioned, and even closed down, for publishing information about a supposedly extremist or terrorist organization, even without prior knowledge of the organization being considered extremist or terrorist. Furthermore, the amendments stipulate that reporters cannot interview “terrorists” on their own initiative, or provide airtime to them, without first acquiring permission from an official. Reporters are further obliged to pass on materials or information relating to terrorist activities to the authorities.

“I fully understand the need to combat violent extremism and terrorist propaganda. However, I am concerned by the scope and the potential impact of the new amendments to the law on countering terrorism and their impact on media freedom,” Désir said. “The Constitution of the Republic of Kyrgyzstan guarantees freedom of expression and freedom of the media. I want to recall the importance of respecting the principles of necessity and proportionality in any restriction to these fundamental rights,” the Representative said. “Freedom of the media is a key pillar of democratic societies, and the media must be able to engage in discussions on socially relevant topics, even if controversial, without risk or fear of undue prosecution or reprisals.”

The Representative called on the authorities to reconsider the amendments and to bring them in line with international standards on freedom of expression and media freedom.

The Representative also noted the objections to the law raised by several media rights advocates and journalists in the country.

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. He provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments. Learn more at www.osce.org/fom, Twitter: @OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/osce.rfom.