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UNESCO Supports the Reform of the Media Freedom Law in Mongolia
UNESCO continues to support Mongolia in its efforts to create a robust and enabling environment for media freedom, recognizing the latter’s vital role in democratic societies. To this end, two multi-stakeholder consultation meetings on the Draft Law on Media Freedom were convened in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, on 26-27 March 2025. This crucial engagement was made possible with support by UNESCO’s Multi-Donor Programme on Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists (MDP).
Mongolia has supported an enabling legal framework for freedom of expression and media freedom in a number of ways, including by enacting the Law on Media Freedom in 1998 and the Law on Public Information Transparency in 2021. The country remains committed to upholding the principles enshrined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), including Article 19, which guarantees the fundamental right to seek, receive, and impart information and ideas through any media.
Recognizing the rapid transformations in the media landscape, fuelled by digitalization, social media, and shifting economic and political factors, an update to the existing legal framework is essential to effectively tackle contemporary challenges.
In response to a request from the Mongolian Parliament 91鶹Ʒ been providing technical assistance to support the development of the proposed draft law, with a view to ensuring its alignment with international best practices and human rights standards. The two multi-stakeholder consultative meetings were held as part of this, convening a diverse group of 93 stakeholders, including government officials, journalists, media organizations, law enforcement agencies, and international stakeholders.
Mr. Jaap van Hierden, UN Resident Coordinator in Mongolia attended one of the meetings and underscored the importance of ensuring that the new law is fully aligned with Mongolia’s international obligations, particularly under Article 19 of the ICCPR. He also emphasized that the law should seek to strike a delicate balance, addressing legitimate concerns such as professional media reporting, while safeguarding fundamental freedoms.
Prof. Shahbaz Khan, Director and Representative of UNESCO Regional Office for East Asia, delivered his opening remarks virtually, reiterating UNESCO’s commitment to supporting Mongolia’s media reforms. He emphasized that “Press freedom stands as a cornerstone of democratic societies, acting as a vital mechanism for ensuring accountability, transparency, and the free flow of information – all of these are essential elements in empowering citizens and fostering informed public discourse.”
Mr. Boldsaikhan Sambuu, Secretary-General of the Mongolian National Commission for UNESCO, highlighted the crucial role of safeguarding press freedom, protecting journalists, and upholding freedom of expression as fundamental pillars of democracy. He stressed the need for a robust legal framework not only for media but also for additional legislation to reinforce these rights.
Mr. Toby Mendel, Executive Director of the Centre for Law and Democracy, which is partnering with UNESCO on this work, facilitated the discussions and provided an in-depth analysis of the revised draft law, presenting key policy recommendations. His analysis addressed key issues such as the scope of the law, definitions, restrictions on journalism, protections for media freedom, media rules and obligations, self-regulation, media regulation, public service media, and other related issues. Mendel's recommendations included improving vague provisions, removing problematic articles, and incorporating missing key principles of media freedom. He emphasized the need for broader consultation with stakeholders and to treat the law as a quasi-constitutional legislative instrument.
G.Gunjindmaa, Executive Director of Media Council of Mongolia (MCM), explained the current system of MCM, stating: "The MCM does not have a membership structure. We handle complaints about breaches of the journalistic code of conduct in published or broadcast news content — but not in films, TV shows, or other programs. Our work supports both the public’s right to information and high standards in ethical journalism."
H.E. Mr. Helmut Rudolf Kulitz, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Mongolia, remarked: “I am pleased that the UNESCO is organizing this important discussion. In drafting media freedom legislation, it is essential in a democratic society to ensure that voices from outside the government are heard — to advise, accompany, and, when necessary, offer constructive criticism within the bounds of their mandate — a mandate grounded in media freedom and freedom of expression.”
A significant result of the workshop was the presentation of policy recommendations designed to promote meaningful dialogue among media professionals, academia, and law enforcement agencies. Furthermore, the discussions fostered greater stakeholder involvement and cooperation in the on-going development of the proposed legal reforms.
Participants in the discussion
In accordance with its Constitution, UNESCO advocates the basic human right of freedom of expression, enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and its corollary, press freedom. Since its creation in 1945, 91鶹Ʒ been called upon to “promote the free flow of ideas by word and image,” and the Organization’s Member States have repeatedly confirmed this mandate over the years in decisions adopted by the General Conference, the highest authority of the United Nations agency. UNESCO promotes freedom of expression and freedom of the press as a basic human right.
