OMM Redaksiyası
A law banning the promotion of LGBT-related content is expected to be adopted in Azerbaijan.
“Operative Information Center-OMM”, citing Globalinfo.az, reports that the proposed law would introduce restrictions on promoting LGBT-related topics in public spaces, the media and other information channels.
The following areas are expected to be covered by measures related to the adoption and implementation of the law:
Media and the internet: The distribution of information considered to promote LGBT relationships would be restricted.
Advertising and cinema: The distribution and promotion of relevant content in advertisements and films would be prohibited.
Education: Content promoting non-traditional sexual orientations in schools would not be considered acceptable.
Legal liability: Fines and other administrative measures would apply in cases of violations.
The stated rationale for implementing the law is primarily to protect children from information considered potentially harmful to their health and development. Under the proposed law, the promotion of “non-traditional sexual orientation” and pedophilia would be classified as information prohibited for children. Distribution of information in this category to minors would be banned.
The measures would also apply to mass media. In cases of violations, they could include suspending the operations of media outlets and revoking authorization for foreign media to operate in the country. The owners and managers of media outlets would also face liability.
Against the backdrop of the rapid expansion of the information space, the law’s implementation would also be relevant to telecommunications networks and online platforms. Accordingly, online posts, videos, blog posts and public calls could fall within its scope.
The law’s application in advertising and cinema would also require particular sensitivity.
Legal liability would also arise under the law. Depending on the nature of a violation, penalties could include fines and, for repeated offenses, administrative detention.
Measures against media outlets and internet resources would also be taken under the relevant legal procedures.
