The head of the Russian Union of journalists voted against the bill on fines for fakes
According to Vladimir Solovyov, the proposed measures could limit freedom of expression and freedom of dissemination of information.
Upstairs
MOSCOW, December 12. /TASS/. The head of the Russian Union of journalists Vladimir Solovyov did not support the bill on fines to 1 million rubles for violation of the prohibition of the dissemination in the media and on the Internet false the information of public importance, he says the initiative is a threat to freedom of speech in Russia.
“This legislative initiative is the proposal of deputies that we in the Union of journalists believe it is dangerous because such a formulation of law and proposed penalties may restrict freedom of speech and freedom of dissemination of information, — said Solovyov in an interview with TASS. — So we will be very closely monitored, with involvement of journalistic community over how the law will be discussed in the Duma and in the society, but at the moment we are against this law.”
Previously, the package of draft laws on fines to 1 million rubles for violation of the prohibition of the dissemination in the media and on the Internet of false public interest information under the guise of reliable reports was submitted to the Duma. The corresponding document is available in the electronic database of the lower house on Wednesday.
The bill proposed to prohibit the publication in the media and on the Internet of “false public interest information disseminated under the guise of reliable reports which endangers the life and health of citizens, mass violations of public order and public safety, termination of functioning of critical infrastructure, transport or social infrastructure, the onset of other grave consequences”.