Free Speech: Ten Principles for a Connected World

Free speech is one of the most important values in a democratic society. It allows us to express our opinions, challenge authority, and hold our government accountable. However, the rise of the internet and social media has raised new challenges to free speech.

Free Speech: Ten Principles for a Connected World

by Timothy Garton Ash

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5052 KB
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Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	504 pages

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In this article, we will discuss ten principles for free speech in a connected world. These principles are based on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. They are designed to protect the right to free speech while also taking into account the need to protect other important values, such as public safety and national security.

Ten Principles for Free Speech in a Connected World

1. Everyone has the right to freedom of expression. This right includes the freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive, and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.
2. The right to freedom of expression is not absolute. Certain types of speech, such as hate speech, incitement to violence, and child pornography, can be restricted by law.
3. Restrictions on freedom of expression must be necessary and proportionate. They must be narrowly tailored to achieve a legitimate aim, such as protecting public safety or national security.
4. Prior censorship is prohibited. Governments cannot censor speech before it is published or broadcast.
5. Subsequent punishment for speech must be fair and proportionate. The punishment must fit the crime, and it must not be used to silence dissent.
6. The internet is a public forum. Governments cannot discriminate against online speech in favor of offline speech.
7. Intermediaries are not responsible for the content of their users. Websites and social media platforms cannot be held liable for the content that their users post.
8. Users have the right to access information. Governments cannot block access to information online, and they must ensure that everyone has access to the internet.
9. Free speech is essential for a democratic society. It allows us to challenge authority, hold our government accountable, and make informed decisions about our future.
10. We must all defend free speech. It is a right that we must cherish and protect for future generations.

The ten principles outlined in this article are essential for protecting free speech in a connected world. They balance the right to free expression with the need to protect other important values, such as public safety and national security.

We must all defend free speech. It is a right that we must cherish and protect for future generations.

Free Speech: Ten Principles for a Connected World

by Timothy Garton Ash

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5052 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	504 pages

FREE