Partner Article

Protecting press freedom of speech

Freedom of speech should receive as much protection online as it does in the traditional media, according to new research.

Professor Michael O’Flaherty, an academic from Nottingham University was asked to lead a project on freedom of expression by the UN. In the course of the study, the committee considered many issues including blasphemy laws, new media and laws on treason.

Professor O’Flaherty concluded that it would only be necessary to regulate the media in exceptional cases, and the freedom and independence of the media must be upheld.

Commenting on the report, Professor O’Flaherty said: “ It is a strong reaffirmation of the central importance for all human rights of the freedom of expression and sets out the very strict parameters within which the right can be restricted by states.“

The general Comment also affirmed that media freedom is entitled to high standards of protection, and that the protections afforded to traditional media should now also extend to new media.

States are now being called to “take all necessary steps to foster the independence of these new media and to ensure access of individuals” to it.

What do you think? Should the government protect free speech in the media, or do recent events negate any rights for media outlets?

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .