Baku: Azerbaijan has introduced new criteria for temporarily restricting internet information resources, targeting the dissemination of content related to narcotics, pornography, immoral expressions, gambling, suicide, privacy violations, and insults.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, this development is part of a proposed amendment to the Law "On Information, Informatization and Protection of Information". The proposal was discussed during a joint meeting of the Milli Majlis Committees on Legal Policy and State Building and on Labor and Social Policy. The amendment outlines specific types of information that, if published, could lead to the temporary restriction of the concerned internet resource or its relevant section by the decision of the appropriate executive authority.

The targeted content includes information on the production or use of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, pornography, and acts that insult public morality. It also covers content encouraging gambling, promoting suicide, and violating individual privacy. Additionally, the proposal aims to address the dissemination of false information that poses threats to public safety and critical infrastructure.

The amendment further specifies that films, television and video content, and electronic games must be marked according to the relevant age category as per the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan 'On Protection of Children from Harmful Information', except for those in the 'Universal' age category. This move is an effort to protect children and maintain public order by regulating harmful content on the internet.