According to media reports, a draft has been put up for discussion in the National Assembly, according to which a fine of 5 million drams is envisaged for insult and 10 million for defamation. The author of the draft is Alen Simonyan. The draft is problematic, as it may refer to Social Networks and media outlets, causing various speculations and restrictions.
This is another step against freedom of speech. Due to the disproportionate fines, the media will be cautious to publish reliable information. In fact, this is another initiative by the authorities to silence the media.
