Baku:A draft reform of the Constitutional Law Against Hatred, for Peaceful Coexistence and Tolerance has been submitted by Venezuela's National Assembly President, Jorge Rodriguez, to the Supreme Tribunal of Justice (TSJ) for consideration.

According to Anadolu Agency, the submission was announced by Rodriguez through a post on the social media platform X, though no details of the proposed amendments were provided. The reform has not yet been approved and must undergo review and legislative processes before any changes can be enacted.

The law, initially adopted in 2017 under the leadership of Nicolas Maduro, imposes penalties for actions that promote or incite hatred, discrimination, and violence. However, it has faced criticism from human rights organizations that argue its broad provisions could limit freedom of expression and be used against political opponents and critics of the government.

The reform proposal emerges amidst calls for changes to laws affecting political expression and civil liberties in Venezuela. Interim President Delcy Rodriguez has previously advocated for partial reform, recognizing the concerns regarding its application, as reported by Venezuelan media.

The draft is anticipated to undergo public consultation before a second legislative discussion. Human rights groups continue to push for the repeal or amendment of legislation they deem contrary to international freedom of expression standards. The specifics of the reform remain unspecified, and the impact will rely on the final language approved by lawmakers and its subsequent implementation.