UNESCO, in collaboration with the Globe International Center of Mongolia, hosted a discussion on the Law on Media Freedom. The discussion centered on a revised draft law, which is being considered by parliament.

In his opening remarks, Jaap van Hierden, the UN Resident Coordinator in Mongolia, acknowledged Mongolia's strong democratic values and its 1998 Law on Media Freedom, which played a key role in securing press independence and protecting freedom of expression. He emphasized, however, that rapid changes in the media landscape due to digital transformation, the rise of social media, and evolving political and economic pressures require updates to the legal framework. In light of these challenges, the parliament has initiated a revision of the 1998 Law to ensure its alignment with international standards. Van Hierden stressed that the new media law must preserve journalistic independence, prevent unnecessary censorship, and maintain media pluralism and diversity.

The government has already submitted the revised draft Law on Media Freedom to the parliament. The initiators of the law sought UNESCO's assistance, particularly in ensuring that the law aligns with international standards on freedom of expression. As a result, the Canadian-based Center for Law and Democracy has been providing technical support for the revision process.

During the discussion, Toby Mendel, Executive Director of the Center, presented the center's assessment of the revised draft law. Drawing from international standards and best practices, Mendel praised the law's positive intentions to promote media freedom. He highlighted key provisions of the draft law, including the prohibition of government interference in media organizations, the recognition of media self-regulation, the protection of journalists' rights, and the safeguarding of journalistic sources' confidentiality. However, he also emphasized that some provisions require refinement and presented his recommendations to O.Altangerel, the Minister of Justice and Home Affairs.

B.Purevsuren, a lawyer and attorney at the Globe International Center of Mongolia, pointed out that while the revised draft represents significant progress, it is essential to consider not only the Media Freedom Law but also other related laws. He noted that, out of the 932 laws currently in effect in Mongolia, only six are being proposed for amendment alongside the Media Freedom Law, a number he deemed insufficient. B.Purevsuren stressed the need for a broader, more comprehensive approach to media freedom.

The discussion participants also underscored that the primary law should set the core standards for media regulation, with more detailed provisions to be addressed in other relevant legislation. This approach, they agreed, would ensure that the legal framework adequately supports a free and independent media environment in Mongolia.