In response to a non-governmental organizations` appeal (Centre for democracy and rule of law, «Detector media», Institute of mass information, «Internews-Ukraine», Regional Press Development Institute, «Centre UA», National Union of Journalists of Ukraine) Verhovna Rada Committee on Freedom of Speech and Information Policy voted to reject №4034 draft law «On applying changes in Criminal law code and Criminal procedure code of Ukraine (about elaboration of criminal responsibility for committing crimes against personal freedom, honor and dignity)».

 Draft law, introduced by MP Yevhen Murayev at 08/19/2016, elaborates criminal penalty for defamation and abuse. Experts consider these changes to provoke serious «chill effect» for media and democracy altogether.