An initiative has been taken to amend the Press Council Act to ensure the safety of journalists. Simultaneously, the new draft of the Cyber Security Act amendment proposes reducing penalties for several offenses and includes some protections for registered media outlets. However, analysts say reducing the length of sentences alone is not enough to increase the law's acceptability.

What the Cyber Security Act Draft Contains

The amended draft proposes reducing the maximum punishment for spreading rumors and misinformation from 10 years to 5 years, and for defamation from 5 years to 2 years. Fines are also being reduced. Additionally, provisions for certain protections for registered media outlets have been mentioned.

However, the decision to discuss the amended draft with stakeholders and publish it again for public opinion is being viewed as a positive initiative. The move to allow room for discussion and review of the draft has been welcomed.

Why Concerns Remain

According to analysts, the acceptability of a law cannot be judged solely by the length of punishment. The key considerations are how precisely the definitions of offenses are framed and how much power is granted to law enforcement agencies. By that measure, the new draft still contains ample reasons for concern.

Experts believe that if the scope remains for subjecting someone to criminal prosecution for criticism or satire, reducing penalties will not bring about significant change. The uncertainty of lawsuits, arrests, bail, and lengthy trial processes remain the biggest fears for a journalist.

Initiative to Amend the Press Council Act

An initiative has been taken to amend the Press Council Act to ensure the safety of journalists. According to relevant sources, the amendment aims to improve the working environment for journalists and prevent any form of harassment against them.

Meanwhile, reports have also been published about a meeting between the Defense Adviser and a UN Special Rapporteur. However, it has not been confirmed whether the safety of journalists or the Press Council Act amendment was discussed during this meeting.

The Way Forward

After the amended draft is published for public opinion, feedback from stakeholders will be collected. Subsequently, a final draft may be prepared and placed before parliament. However, the effectiveness of the law will depend on the precision of definitions, the authority of enforcement agencies, and the judicial process. Ensuring the proper implementation of the law remains the core challenge in guaranteeing journalists' safety and freedom of expression.