Puebla’s New Cyberbullying Law Sparks Free Speech Debate

Puebla, Mexico — The government of Puebla, led by the ruling Morena party, has introduced a new criminal offense termed "cyberbullying," which imposes prison sentences of up to three years for insults posted on social media platforms. The law, already published in the state's Official Gazette, has sparked immediate backlash over concerns it could stifle free expression.

The "Cyberbullying" Law in Detail

The legislation defines the crime as:

"Committing the offense of cyberbullying involves using information technologies, social networks, email, or any digital space to insult, slander, offend, aggrieve, or harass another person with sufficient persistence to cause harm or detriment to their physical or emotional integrity."

Penalties include three years' imprisonment and financial fines. The law took immediate effect after its publication in Puebla's Official Gazette under Article 480.

Free Speech Concerns and Ambiguities

Critics, including the free speech organization Article 19, warn that the law's vague wording—particularly its undefined parameters for what constitutes an "insult" or "offense"—poses a threat to freedom of expression. The organization cites Inter-American Court of Human Rights precedents protecting speech that may be "shocking, disturbing, or offensive."

Hypothetical scenarios raised by opponents include:

• Whether criticizing Puebla Governor Alejandro Armenta's political history—such as his tenure under former Governor Mario Marín or past corruption allegations—could be deemed illegal under the law.

Article 19 stated:

"These offenses can be arbitrarily used against citizens, particularly journalists and media outlets."

Governor's Response

Despite the law's enactment, Governor Armenta announced plans to hold public forums to review the legislation. It remains unclear whether he will veto the measure or allow it to stand.

The law has been colloquially dubbed the "Censorship Law" by detractors, who argue it could enable government retaliation against dissent.