Activists in Russia have kicked off demonstrations against a new bill, which its critics say is part of an effort to facilitate censorship.
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.
Indonesia Guilty Verdict in Case About WhatsApp Messages is Mistake
Indonesia’s Judiciary Commission should review the prosecution of Saidah Saleh Syamlan for criminal defamation in the Surabaya district court.
Using the Blockchain Ecosystem To Fight Against Authoritarianism
Asia Pacific Conservative Union (APCU) has launched the Liberty Ecosystem, a block chain based network designed to fight authoritarianism.
4 New Tools to Use for Data in World Democracy Visualizations
V-Dem Institute is releasing four new tools, making it possible to create even more comprehensive and nuanced charts for both beginners and advanced users.
Hala Al-Dosari selected as Washington Post’s first Jamal Khashoggi Fellow
Hala Al-Dosari, Saudi academic and researcher, selected as 1st “Washington Post” Jamal Khashoggi Fellow named after Saudi journalist murdered on 02 October.
Authorities Were Tracking Migrant Caravan Journalists and Activists
U.S. tracked dossiers on journalists, activists and lawyers who interacted with migrants who arrived at U.S.-Mexico border from Central America last year.
Russian MPs Approve Bills Restricting Online Criticism of Kremlin
The lower house of Russia’s parliament has passed two bills that restrict online criticism of government and authorizes the imposition of jail sentences.
UN Urges Social Media to Promote Human Rights in Myanmar
Social media firms and foreign investors must do more to ensure they support human rights in Myanmar, U.N. Special Rapporteur Yanghee Lee said on Tuesday.
Egypt Releases Prominent Photojournalist After 5 Years in Prison
Egyptian photojournalist Mahmoud Abou Zeid, also known as Shawkan, released after 5 years in prison according to a post from his Twitter account.
Egypt Praises Rami Malek for Oscar Win But Censors Him Too
Egyptian authorities were eager to claim a connection to Egyptian-American actor Rami Malek after his best actor win at the Academy Awards last week.