Kyrgyzstan Proposes New Law to Combat Online Disinformation and Fake News
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan – The Kyrgyz government has introduced a draft law aimed at curbing the spread of fake news and disinformation online. The proposed legislation, titled "On Amendments to the Code of Offenses," seeks to impose administrative sanctions, including fines, on individuals and legal entities found responsible for disseminating false information on social media, messaging platforms, and traditional media outlets.
The move comes amid growing concerns about the proliferation of misinformation and its potential to destabilize society, violate citizens’ rights, and undermine state interests. The Cabinet of Ministers, in its justification for the bill, highlighted the increasing influence of the internet and social media as primary sources of information, emphasizing their susceptibility to manipulation and the spread of fake news.
The government argues that existing legal frameworks are insufficient to address the challenges posed by online disinformation. The proposed law introduces a new article, Article 1093, titled "Dissemination of false (inaccurate) information," which specifically targets the spread of fake news that could potentially incite public disorder, infringe on citizens’ rights, or harm state interests, provided such actions do not constitute criminal offenses.
Under the proposed legislation, individuals found guilty of disseminating false information could face fines of 200 calculated rates, equivalent to 20,000 soms (approximately $230 USD). Legal entities, including media organizations and companies, could be subject to heavier fines of 650 calculated rates, or 65,000 soms (approximately $750 USD).
The draft law builds upon existing legislation targeting online defamation and slander. In January 2025, President Sadyr Japarov signed a law imposing fines for online insults and slander, which came into effect in February of the same year. These laws reflect the government’s increasing focus on regulating online content and combating harmful speech.
However, the proposed law has raised concerns among free speech advocates and civil society organizations. Critics argue that the vague definition of "false information" could be used to stifle legitimate criticism and dissent. They also express concerns about the potential for selective enforcement and the lack of clear mechanisms for determining the veracity of information.
The government maintains that the proposed measures are necessary to protect public order and national security, and do not constitute censorship. Officials emphasize that the law targets only the dissemination of deliberately false information with the intent to cause harm, and does not restrict freedom of expression or legitimate criticism of the government.
The draft law is currently under consideration by the Zhogorku Kenesh, the Kyrgyz Parliament. Should it be approved by lawmakers, it will further strengthen the government’s arsenal in combating online disinformation and regulating the digital sphere. However, questions remain about the law’s implementation and its potential impact on freedom of speech and the media landscape in Kyrgyzstan.
The debate surrounding the proposed law highlights the complex challenges faced by governments worldwide in balancing the need to combat disinformation with the protection of fundamental rights. As Kyrgyzstan grapples with these issues, the outcome of the legislative process will have significant implications for the future of online discourse and media freedom in the country.
The international community will be watching closely as this law progresses through the Kyrgyz Parliament. The law’s ultimate form, and its subsequent implementation, will serve as an important case study for other countries wrestling with similar challenges in the digital age. Kyrgyzstan’s actions could influence how other nations approach the regulation of online content and the fight against disinformation in the years to come.
Civil society organizations within Kyrgyzstan and international human rights groups have called for greater clarity in the definition of "false information" and for stronger safeguards against arbitrary enforcement. They emphasize the importance of transparency and due process in any efforts to regulate online content.
The government has stated it is open to dialogue with civil society and international organizations on the proposed law. However, it remains firm in its belief that measures are needed to address the spread of disinformation and its potential negative consequences. The coming weeks and months will be crucial in determining the final shape of this legislation and its ultimate impact on freedom of expression in Kyrgyzstan.
The issue of online disinformation is not unique to Kyrgyzstan. Countries around the world are grappling with similar challenges, seeking to find the right balance between protecting their citizens from harmful falsehoods and upholding fundamental rights. The international community will be looking to the Kyrgyz experience to inform their own approaches to this complex and rapidly evolving issue.
As technology advances and the digital sphere becomes increasingly intertwined with daily life, the challenge of combating disinformation will only grow more complex. Kyrgyzstan’s efforts to address this challenge will be closely watched, both regionally and globally, as a test case for how governments can navigate the complexities of regulating online content in the 21st century.