A new requirement is being established regarding information published and/or broadcasted in the media, APA reports.
This is reflected in the proposed amendment to the "Media Law," which was discussed at today’s session of the National Assembly.
According to the newly proposed Article 14.1.11-1, the publication (or broadcasting) of false information must not be allowed.
It is noted that one of the biggest concerns for Azerbaijani media and the public is the spread of false information with unknown sources in the information space. This manipulative content, influenced by social networks, finds its way into the feeds of media outlets, thereby transmitting information that does not reflect the truth to society through various media channels. Considering the serious social demand, amendments to the "Media Law" are proposed to strengthen methods to combat fake news, which both pollutes the information environment and affects the reputation of journalists. Specifically, it is planned to add a provision to Article 14, which covers information requirements, prohibiting the publication (or broadcast) of false information.
Similar practices in combating fake news exist in Turkish legislation. Specifically, a project known as the "Law on Combating Disinformation," which includes internet media under the scope of periodicals, has been adopted by the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye.
After discussions, the draft law was put to a vote and approved in its first reading.
