Peru's National Association of Journalists Warns Against Bill Threatening Press Freedom

• The National Association of Journalists of Peru (ANP) warns that Bill No. 00043/2026-2031-CD, proposed by Representative Aldo Antonio Bravo Quispe, poses a severe threat to press freedom and the right to information.
• The bill seeks to criminalize the "apology of aggravated crime" during social conflicts, using broad language that risks labeling standard journalistic work as illegal.

Key Concerns

• Ambiguous Definitions: The use of terms like "justify," "legitimize," or "create a risk" is too vague, potentially capturing protected journalistic content under criminal scrutiny.
• Misinterpretation of Reporting: The ANP asserts that covering protests, interviewing leaders, and documenting violence are essential journalistic duties, not acts of incitement or legitimization of violence.
• Targeting Media Platforms: The bill singles out media outlets, digital platforms, and opinion leaders for aggravated penalties, creating a chilling effect on those necessary for public discourse.
• Lack of Protections: The bill allows for the seizure of electronic devices and digital files, which threatens the confidentiality of sources and the security of ongoing investigations.

Implications for Democracy

• The proposal risks criminalizing fundamental rights, including the freedom of expression and the right to protest.
• The ANP argues the bill is unnecessary, as the current Peruvian legal system already includes provisions to punish the incitement of violence and criminal apology.
• The association cautions that the state must not expand its punitive power at the expense of fundamental freedoms essential to a democratic society.