War in Gaza threatens freedom of speech

(CLO) The war between Israel and the Hamas militant group in Gaza not only caused loss of life and property, but also seriously threatened freedom of expression globally, according to the latest report of the United Nations Special Rapporteur on freedom of expression.

The report, presented on October 17 at the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, highlighted violations of freedom of expression related to the war.

Palestinians inspect damage following an Israeli airstrike on the El-Remal area in Gaza City on October 9, 2023. Photo: Naaman Omar, CC BY-SA 3.0

The report stresses that the conflict in Gaza is undermining the right to expression and freedom of information, not only in the conflict zone but also around the world. The Special Rapporteur identifies three main challenges to freedom of expression in this context.

First, attacks on journalists and media: The report highlights in particular attacks on journalists and media, which threaten access to information about conflict and acts of genocide.

Second, suppression of Palestinian voices: The report also criticizes the discriminatory and disproportionate suppression of Palestinian voices and perspectives, and warns of the undermining of academic, artistic, and general freedom of expression. The imposition of blanket bans on certain types of language or symbols should be avoided.

Third, the line between political speech and hate speech: The report clarifies the difference between “hate speech” and support for terrorism. Linking Palestinians to terrorism or anti-Semitism through their symbols or slogans must be carefully considered, to avoid unnecessary restrictions on freedom of expression.

ARTICLE 19, an international organization that protects freedom of expression, participated in the consultation process for the report. They warned that the war in Gaza could set dangerous precedents for freedom of expression globally, from restricting pro-Palestinian protests to censoring information in the name of fighting terrorism and anti-Semitism.

The war has also affected regions beyond the Middle East, particularly the United States, Europe, and the Middle East-North Africa region. Censorship and human rights abuses related to the war are eroding the ability to resolve conflicts peacefully and hindering justice and accountability.

In this context, the Special Rapporteur and ARTICLE 19 have called on States, social media companies, universities and other private institutions to ensure that freedom of expression is protected for all.

The Special Rapporteur also called for accountability for attacks on journalists and the media, and condemned the suppression of views related to Palestinian rights.

Cao Phong (according to Reuters)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/lien-hop-quoc-cuoc-chien-o-gaza-la-moi-de-dan-toan-cau-doi-voi-quyen-tu-do-ngon-luan-post317384.html