The discussion titled “Are defamation and insult crime?” was held on December 12, 2012 at the Citizens` Hall under the Office of the President. It was supported by US Embassy in Ulaanbaatar and co-organized by Globe International, Office of the President,  Legal Standing committee and State Structure`s Standing committee, in the framework of the Ask! campaign, during which all election candidates were inquired about their view of the decriminalization of press offences, implemented since June, 2012 with the IFEX.

The discussion aimed to exchange ideas and opinions on abolishing Articles 110 and 111 of the Criminal Law relating to slander and defamation.  
Sh.Tuvdendorj, Head of the Legal Standing Committee gave an opening speech. He pointed that the main tool for free expression is independent and pluralistic media and mentioned that journalists depending on their unique responsibility often face criminal defamation. Kh.Naranjargal, Head of GI made a presentation on freedom of expression, criminal defamation and international principles and standards. T.Ganbaatar, Officer of the Ministry of Justice and D.Munkhburen, Lawyer of GI presented their proposals of the Ministry to the Draft of renewed Criminal Law. The discussion was moderated by Ch.Sosormaa, Adviser to the President. The event was widely covered by broadcast and print media.

Representatives from the US Embassy, Parliament, President’s Office, media outlets, journalists, prosecutors, police departments, NGOs were present. During the event two playwrights based on true stories of journalists faced criminal defamation conviction “Big brother” and “Never late” staged.