The Union of Cyprus Journalists (UCJ) has expressed its deep appreciation to the International and European Federation of Journalists (IFJ-EFJ) for their swift reaction against a bill, which they argue poses significant threats to press freedom and freedom of expression.
In a joint statement, the IFJ-EFJ and UCJ condemned the legislative amendment, which introduces severe penalties, including prison sentences of up to five years, for those accused of spreading “fake news” or writing “offensive” comments.
“A legislative amendment is being promoted in Cyprus to introduce prison sentences of up to five years for anyone accused of spreading ‘fake news’ or writing ‘offensive’ comments,” the statement said. They warned of the “tremendous impact it can have on freedom of the press.”
The proposed amendment, set to be presented to the Cypriot Parliament in September, aims to convert several civil offences into criminal ones. It includes penalties for the dissemination of false news, threats, insults, and obscene images on the Internet.
On July 3, 2024, the House Legal Affairs Committee discussed the proposal, which received backing from Assistant Attorney General Savvas Angelides and committee chairman Nikos Tornaritis, a DISY MP. However, the Union of Cyprus Journalists, along with other journalistic bodies, strongly opposed the amendment.
This marks the second attempt by some MPs to introduce such legislation. “While recognising the need to combat misinformation, IFJ, EFJ, and UCJ call on the authorities to follow the recommendations of the Council of Europe, the European Union, and the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD),” the statement read. These organisations advise against legal provisions that criminalise misinformation due to the potential negative impact on press and speech freedoms.
The IFJ and EFJ emphasised that the best approach to combating misinformation is through fostering a healthy information ecosystem. This includes promoting media literacy, quality information, journalistic ethics, independent media, decent working conditions for journalists, and transparency. “Where repressive laws have been passed, they have proven to be ineffective, counterproductive, or diverted from their stated goal, ultimately intimidating journalists or forcing them to self-censor,” the federations noted.
The IFJ and EFJ strongly urged the Cypriot Legislative Body to adhere to European legal standards and withdraw the proposed amendment. “IFJ and EFJ strongly urge the Legislative Body of Cyprus to comply with European legal standards and withdraw this proposed amendment to the criminal code,” they concluded.
The UCJ had previously warned the Parliament of fierce international reactions if the amendment proceeded, stressing that the controversial legislation must be withdrawn to avoid further damaging Cyprus’s reputation.
