Ziyafat Askerov: Penalties for insult and slander can be toughened in Azerbaijan

Baku. 21 February. REPORT.AZ/ "It will be good if the social networks are used properly. Attempts to exploit social networks are inadmissible. It is unacceptable to insult a personality, honor and dignity of the people and commit other illegal actions. These cases are prosecuted under criminal law. Certain changes can be made in the legislation, including the law 'On Mass Media' to prevent such cases," First Deputy Speaker of the Azerbaijani Parliament Ziyafat Asgarov said.

He noted that he supports the strengthening of public reproach in this issue. "People themselves must understand that public reproach should be strong. Journalists should be active so that such unpleasant cases do not happen. The Criminal Code envisages penalties for insult and slander. If proposals are made, the penalties can be toughened. However, people’s reaction is crucial, cultural level of people should be increased. If you are disputing with someone for any reason, you should not insult him. This is not solution. There are normal and civil ways. Why should you insult someone by sitting behind the computer and writing different things? What kind of morality does it refer to insult others from abroad? These posts are read by you and your family - your mother, sister, and brother. This is a shameful situation. Everyone should have irreconcilable position on this issue."