-----Original Message----- From: news5-ad...@lists.un.org [mailto:news5-ad...@lists.un.org] On Behalf Of UNNews Sent: Tuesday, 01 December, 2009 23:05 To: ne...@secint00.un.org Subject: UN RIGHTS EXPERT PLEASED DEFAMATION NO LONGER CRIMINAL OFFENCE IN MALDIVES
UN RIGHTS EXPERT PLEASED DEFAMATION NO LONGER CRIMINAL OFFENCE IN MALDIVES New York, Dec 1 2009 11:05AM An independent United Nations human rights expert today welcomed the adoption of a bill by the Parliament of the Maldives to decriminalize defamation, and urged other States to take similar action. The bill adopted on 23 November abolishes articles 150 through 166 of the country's Penal Code, which deal with defamation of a person's "name, integrity, or dignity," which carried a sentence of exile, house detention or fine. UN Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, Frank La Rue, welcomed the move, which he had called for following his visit to the Maldives in March. He also urged all States which have not already done so to repeal criminal defamation laws in favour of civil laws. "In addition, any provisions that allow public officials to bring defamation suits with regard to their actions in public office should be totally eliminated," he stressed. Mr. La Rue also said he looked forward to the implementation of other recommendations he made with regard to the Maldives, including the adoption of an anti-monopoly legislation, particularly with regard to communications. ________________ For more details go to UN News Centre at http://www.un.org/news To change your profile or unsubscribe go to: http://www.un.org/news/dh/latest/subscribe.shtml No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 9.0.709 / Virus Database: 270.14.89/2539 - Release Date: 12/02/09 02:32:00 No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 9.0.716 / Virus Database: 270.14.105/2561 - Release Date: 12/13/09 02:39:00
