KARACHI:
Governments around the world routinely imprison people for speaking out, despite the freedom of speech being enshrined in the Constitution. Even though they have a duty to prohibit hateful and inciteful speech, many abuse their authority to silence peaceful dissent by passing laws criminalising freedom of expression. This is often done in the name of counter-terrorism, national security or religion. More recently, freedom of expression has come under threat with authorities in parts of the world clamping down on activists, NGOs and individuals helping refugees and migrants. The intolerant attitude of governments towards unfavourable views or critical voices is often a good indication of how they generally view human rights and treat the vulnerable.
You need to realise that your voice matters. You have the right to say what you think and demand a better world. You also have the right to agree or disagree with those in power, and to express these opinions in a peaceful manner. Exercising these rights, without fear or unlawful interference, is central to living in an open and fair society — one in which people can access justice and enjoy their basic rights.
Mehreen Munir Roshin
Turbat
Published in The Express Tribune, January 28th, 2021.
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