Criminal
Misappropriation of Property
"Everyone
has the rights to the freedom of opinion and expression; this right
includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek,
receive and impart information and ideas through and media and regardless
of fronties" Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 19.
Freedom
of Expression
Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms.
In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations
or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution
59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right
and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations
is consecrated."
Freedom of expression
is essential in enabling democracy to work and public participation
in decision-making. Citizens cannot exercise their right to vote effectively
or take part in public decision-making if they do not have free access
to information and ideas and are not able to express their views freely.
Freedom of expression is thus not only important for individual dignity
but also to participation, accountability and democracy. Violations
of freedom of expression often go hand in hand with other violations,
in particular the right to freedom of association and assembly.
Progress has been
made in recent years in terms of securing respect for the right to freedom
of expression. Efforts have been made to implement this right through
specially constructed regional mechanisms. New opportunities are emerging
for greater freedom of expression with the internet and worldwide satellite
broadcasting. New threats are emerging too, for example with global
media monopolies and pressures on independent media outlets.
Source:
Human Rights Education Associates.
