President-elect Donald Trump and his allies talk a lot about the state of free speech in the United States. They’re quick to denounce the ‘censorship’ of conservative voices, while at the same time attacking minorities, targeting journalists, and threatening lawsuits against those who dare to criticise them.
But that’s not what freedom of expression is. It is not about harassing the media or suing your critics. It's about enabling everyone, especially those with less power, to have a voice.
Days from the US election, it’s time to reinvigorate our commitment to freedom of expression. This starts with recognising the key principles:
Free media is essential for democracy
A free and independent media serves the vital function of holding power to account. Any government must support journalists’ right to report, in recognition that their work is essential for the functioning of democracy.
Free expression protects disagreement and debate, not incitement to violence
Because freedom of expression is powerful, US and international law provide guardrails to protect the vulnerable. Freedom of expression does not grant a right to incite violence, discriminate or harass.
Information integrity fosters understanding and strengthens societies
Governments must support research that aims to expose threats to democracy and our right to information. Protecting free expression means pushing back on book banning and the censorship of teaching. Education should be inclusive and respect diversity, creating stronger societies.
Information is power
People must have the power to choose what they access and share online. Governments must address the dangers of businesses shaping the future of expression – whether it’s Big Tech and social media companies or legacy media run by businesses willing to sacrifice media freedom for fear of getting on the wrong side of powerful agendas.
Freedom of expression must be defended on the international stage
Freedom of expression and other human rights must be foreign policy priorities. This must include holding governments to account for attacks on freedom of expression in conflict zones, including in Ukraine, Palestine, Lebanon and beyond – condemning killings and attacks on journalists and pushing for international accountability for war crimes.
We stand ready to protect these principles, and we will hold those with power accountable for their record on freedom of expression, at home and around the world.
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