Mongolia
On November 25, 2025, Mongolia's Constitutional Court ruled that Article 13.14 of the Criminal Code, which criminalized the dissemination of 'false information,' violated the nation's constitution. This landmark decision is seen as a significant victory for press freedom and freedom of expression in Mongolia.
Article 13.14 had been criticized for its vague definition, allowing authorities to investigate and prosecute individuals without substantial evidence of falsehood. Between 2020 and 2024, 2,260 cases were opened under this article, resulting in only five convictions, indicating its potential use as an intimidation tool against journalists and critics.
The court's decision underscores the importance of protecting freedom of speech and the press. It also highlights the need for legal provisions to be clearly defined to prevent misuse. The ruling awaits approval by Mongolia's parliament, with civil society organizations and journalists advocating for its formal adoption.
