The parliamentary commission on constitutional and legal affairs gave the green light for changes to the Penal Code, which provide for the criminalization of the dissemination of information about a person's private life without their consent. The decision was made on first reading, which took place during an extraordinary session held during the break of the plenary session. The atmosphere in the hall was tense, as the MPs listened to the arguments of their colleagues.
After the debates concluded, the voting results showed categorical support for the bill. A total of 14 MPs supported the proposed changes, while four voted against. One MP abstained.
The bill was submitted by MPs from the political formation "There Is Such a People".
The proposed changes to the Penal Code specifically stipulate that "Whoever, through print or other mass media, through electronic information systems or otherwise, disseminates a tangible or other medium containing information about the private life of another without their consent shall be punished by imprisonment from one to six years and a fine of two thousand leva to five thousand leva". This is the text of the bill submitted by "There Is Such a People".
Under the concept of information about private life, according to the bill, is understood data that is related to personal relationships, family relationships, intimate relationships or the health status of a natural person.
In addition, changes related to the use of special intelligence means are also provided for. The proponents of the bill explain that the need for these changes is dictated by the rapid development of communication means and information technologies. They emphasize the need for effective mechanisms for establishing and investigating this crime, especially when modern technologies have been used to commit it.