Public Discussion Highlights Amendments to Azerbaijan’s Information Laws

Baku: A public discussion was held at the Press Council today, APA reports. At the initiative of the Press Council, the event focused on the draft law of the Republic of Azerbaijan regarding amendments to the Code of Administrative Offences, the Laws on Information, Informatization and Protection of Information, and the Protection of Children from Harmful Information.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Chairman of the Press Council Rashad Majid emphasized that these legislative initiatives are poised to enrich Azerbaijan's legal framework. Majid highlighted the importance of expanding responsibility mechanisms within society, aiming to address the perception of the virtual space as an environment of impunity and potential arbitrariness. He pointed out that the current trend poses threats to information security and raises moral concerns, potentially generating tensions within society.

During the meeting, Hajibay Heydarli, member of the Press Council Board and Chairman of the Council's Social Media Relations Commission, remarked on the widespread societal discussions regarding unethical behavior on social media platforms. Farid Pardashunas, another member of the Press Council Board and Director of the Technote company, addressed the global concern over undesirable situations on social media. He clarified that the issue at hand is not about imposing total bans but ensuring the possibility of legally disputing problematic situations. This approach aims to prevent the normalization of rights violations and alleviate societal tensions.

The speakers underscored the profound impact of social media on public life, advocating for the reflection of current realities in legislation. They acknowledged the significance of the draft law, which aims to amend existing legal frameworks to enhance responsibility and accountability. Additionally, they stressed the importance of educational measures alongside legal and institutional steps to address issues related to social networks effectively.

Overall, the discussion highlighted the necessity of the proposed amendments, which are expected to strengthen societal responsibility and provide mechanisms to counteract undesirable situations in the digital sphere.