Criminal liability for libel, extremist activity introduced in Ukraine

Criminal liability for libel and extremist activity has been introduced in Ukraine.

Relevant provisions are contained in the law by deputies of the Party of Regions Vadym Kolesnichenko and Volodymyr Oliynyk, adopted at the last meeting of the third session of the Verkhovna Rada on Thursday.

"Dissemination of false information, which disgrace the honor and dignity, causing mental suffering to a person, undermining his credibility and reputation, is often used as a means of political struggle to eliminate competitors. This situation negatively affects the morale of society, undermining the credibility of public authorities," reads the explanatory note.

Lawmakers also believe that phenomenon of extremism is widely observed in Ukraine. "Extremism is activities aimed at the violent overthrow or change of the constitutional system, incitement of social, racial, national, ethnic, linguistic or religious enmity and hatred, holding the riots, public disturbances, acts of hooliganism and vandalism".

Under the law, libel (deliberate dissemination of false statements disgracing honor and dignity of another person) is punishable by a fine up to 50 tax-free minimum incomes, or community service for up to 200 hours, or correctional labor for up to 1 year.