Proposal to Partially or Completely Restrict Internet During Martial Law

The Ministry of Justice of Armenia has introduced a draft amendment to the law on the "Legal Regime of Martial Law," proposing to restrict internet access during a state of martial law.

According to the draft, the current law provides for limitations on freedom of expression, the temporary seizure or confiscation of printing devices, radio broadcasting, sound amplification equipment, and duplicating equipment, as well as special procedures for the accreditation of journalists and specific rules regarding the use of communication tools. However, there was no mention of the internet.

The draft outlines proposals to establish the following:

• In the event of a declaration of martial law in the territory of the Republic of Armenia, restrictions on content broadcasted on television and disseminated via the internet, ensuring the display and distribution of content exclusively related to military-patriotic themes.
• The temporary suspension (blocking) of the operation of websites, social media, and internet applications, as well as partial or complete restriction of internet access.
• In case of internet access restrictions in Armenia, ensuring internet access for public administration bodies and local self-government authorities, strategically important and state-protected facilities and infrastructure, as well as certain organizations (regardless of their organizational-legal form).

A special management council may be established by government decision to act in the area of martial law as an advisory body to the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia. The council will be led by the Prime Minister.