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Freedom of Speech

Human Rights



  • “In the exercise of his rights and freedoms, everyone shall be subject only to such limitations as are determined by law solely for the purpose of securing due recognition and respect for the rights and freedoms of others and of meeting the just requirements of morality, public order and the general welfare in a democratic society.” United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 29:2.



Freedom of speech, including the right to dissent and critique, is a universal and inalienable right. This right does not extend to incitement of violence or advocacy of hatred based on race, ethnicity, gender, religion, or immutable personal characteristics.  Suppression of inconvenient data, censorship of unfavored non-violent viewpoints, and harassment, intimidation, and retaliation against dissenters or whistleblowers all are all violations of human rights. Civil dialogue in good faith among individuals of varying perspectives is necessary to functioning democracy.

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