Azerbaijani lawmakers are considering new restrictions and administrative penalties aimed at curbing the spread of immoral, unethical, and socially harmful content on the internet and social networks.
The proposed amendments were discussed at a joint session of the Milli Majlis committees on Legal Policy and State Building, and on Human Rights.
Ban on Online Content That “Disrespects Society”
The draft amendments to the Law “On Information, Informatization and Protection of Information” introduce a legal ban on publishing materials that display “open disrespect toward society” or violate public morality.
The restrictions would apply to content that includes:
obscene language and gestures,
public demonstration of body parts in forms deemed inappropriate,
actions violating ethical and national-moral values.
According to the explanatory note, cases of unethical posts and provocative online behavior have sharply increased in recent years. Lawmakers argue such content negatively affects society, accelerates the erosion of moral values, and influences the behavior of teenagers and young people.
They also point to the role of social media algorithms that promote controversial or “viral” material, amplifying its reach.
The authors of the bill say current legislation does not sufficiently cover all forms of harmful information, making it necessary to clarify responsibilities and strengthen protections for minors.
Fines for Online Calls to Engage in Prostitution
Separately, lawmakers discussed amendments to the Code of Administrative Offenses introducing a new article to address online promotion of prostitution.
The proposal sets a 500-manat fine for:
publicly encouraging prostitution on internet platforms or telecom networks,
posting mass online offers related to prostitution or facilitating such transactions.
Penalties for Immoral Content and Public Disrespect Online
Additional amendments would impose fines and, in some cases, administrative arrest for online actions that offend public morality or demonstrate clear disrespect toward society.
According to the draft:
First-time offense: fine ranging from 500 to 1,000 manats, with the possibility of up to 30 days of administrative arrest if the violation is deemed severe.
Repeated offense within one year: fine of 1,000 to 2,000 manats, or 1–2 months of administrative arrest for aggravated circumstances.
These penalties apply only when the actions do not qualify as criminal offenses, as specified in an added provision.
Next Steps
After discussion, the proposed amendments were submitted for further review in the legislative process. If adopted, the changes will significantly expand the scope of administrative penalties related to online behavior and digital content regulation in the country.
