IFJ welcomes the approval of a legislative change that eliminates the risk and punishment that journalists previously faced when reporting on certain individuals, symbols or issues of public interest in Uruguay.
(IFJ/IFEX) – 24 June 2009 – IFJ welcomes the approval of a legislative change that eliminates the risk and punishment that journalists previously faced when reporting on certain individuals, symbols or issues of public interest in Uruguay. According to the Uruguayan Press Association (Asociación de la Prensa del Uruguay, APU) and other local organisations, the changes to the country’s legal framework have “decriminalised the dissemination of information and opinions about public officials and issues of public interest”. They also revoke penalties for insults to authorities and national symbols as well as attacks on the honour of foreign heads of state. The new legislation introduces clauses for cases of “real malice” and it includes changes to the “right to reply”.
La FIP da la bienvenida a la eliminación de los delitos de prensa en Uruguay
