Universal Value: What is Freedom of Expression (FOE)?

Hi people, do you have any idea on this?

Let us explain what is FOE.

What is the right to freedom of opinion and expression?

The right to freedom of opinion is the right to hold opinions without interference, and cannot be subject to any exception or restriction.

The right to freedom of expression extends to any medium, including written and oral communications, the media, public protest, broadcasting, artistic works and commercial advertising. The right is not absolute. It carries with it special responsibilities, and may be restricted on several grounds. For example, restrictions could relate to filtering access to certain internet sites, the urging of violence or the classification of artistic material.

When do I need to consider the right to freedom of opinion and expression?

You will need to consider the right to freedom of opinion and expression if you are working on legislation, a policy or a program that:

• regulates the content of any speech, publication, broadcast, display or promotion
• regulates the format or manner of any form of expression (for example requires prior approval for public protest or places restrictions on the uses of places in which protest activity may take place)
• restricts or censors media coverage, including in relation to political matters
• requires material to be approved before it may be published
• attaches criminal or civil liability to the publication of opinions or information
• regulates or restricts access to information, including on the internet
• imposes censorship or provides for classification of entertainment content, or
• Regulates commercial expression (such as advertising).

Kindly share your thought on Freedom of Expression via comment box below. ↓↓↓↓↓

Thank you.

Sources:

1. Freedom House n.d., Freedom of Expression, viewed 13 July 2015, <https://freedomhouse.org/issues/freedom-expression#.VaPZCvmqqkp>

2. Australian Government Attorney-General's Department 2013 , Right to freedom of opinion and expression, viewed 10 July 2015, <https://www.ag.gov.au/RightsAndProtections/HumanRights/PublicSectorGuidanceSheets/Pages/Righttofreedomofopinionandexpression.aspx>