Reporters Without Borders and Freedom House have called on Ukrainian authorities not to pass a draft law that would give the government power to censor domestic and international media, Radio Free Europe reports.

The two rights organizations released statements criticizing a proposed law that would give Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council "draconian" powers to shut down and restrict media considered as threatening to "security and national interests."

Quoting the draft law, titled No 4453, RSF adds that “the broadcasting of television or radio stations” and “the use of Ukrainian broadcast frequencies” can be banned”. The law would also impact on the internet and printed material.

The law covers a long list of sanctions that can be imposed to protect Ukraine’s national interests and security, including the blockage of TV and radio stations and the “restriction or termination” of media and business activities, “including on the internet,” without the need for a court order.

Ukrainian lawmakers approved the first draft of the bill on August 12.