The authorities have struggled to maintain a balance between regulating against extreme views and hate speech and preserving the right to free speech.
Journalism and Free Speech articles on Democracy Chronicles
A basic necessity in a democratic society, is journalism and free speech play a central role in creating a system of checks and balance, and in distributing power equally between governments, businesses, individuals, and other social entities. Access to verifiable information gathered by independent media sources, which adhere to journalistic standards, can also be of service to ordinary citizens, by empowering them with the tools they need in order to participate in the political process. Also see our articles on Civil Rights.
How Myanmar’s Internet Shutdown Risked Lives
The Myanmar government should immediately lift internet restrictions imposed on nine townships in Rakhine and Chin States, Human Rights Watch said today.
Iran Judiciary Should Release Detained Labor Activists
The Iranian judiciary should release three women labor activists and a journalist who are still in jail two months after they were detained.
No Space For Political Criticism Of Rwanda
Research suggests summary executions, enforced disappearances, unlawful arrest and detention, and torture remain all too common in Rwanda.
US Supreme Court Imposes New Limits On Government Records Requests
The Committee to Protect Journalists today expressed concern over a U.S. Supreme Court decision that restricts journalists’ access to government records.
Police Arrest Newspaper Publisher in Midnight Raid in Indian Kashmir
Police arrested the publisher of one of the most widely read newspapers in Indian-controlled Kashmir in a midnight raid over a decades-old case.
Maryland Political Ad Law Violates First Amendment, Coalition Argues
Some media organs are supporting arguments that a Maryland law regulating online political advertising violates the First Amendment.
Internet Blackout Imposed on Myanmar’s Restive Rakhine State
An unprecedented shutdown of mobile data across swathes of Myanmar’s restive Rakhine blocking villagers from internet where the army is accused of abuses.
Worrying Attack on Journalists in Central African Republic
More than 70 percent of the country remains in the control of armed groups and a fragile peace accord is being tested by recent killings in the northwest.
Tanzania Lawmakers Urged To Revise Proposed Law On Free Speech
CPJ urges Tanzanian lawmakers to revise a set of proposed legislative amendments, some of which would pose undue restrictions on freedom of expression.