Stories about Freedom of Speech
From inbox to front page: How the media fuels hate speech in North Macedonia
This is not the first time the media has carelessly published politicians’ statements without critically analyzing them, using the situation to generate sensationalism and boost viewership.
How tech companies enable censorship in Vietnam
"Our findings show a concerning situation where these companies almost always comply with an increasing number of content moderation requests from the Vietnamese government."
The COP29 is over, and so is the spotlight on Azerbaijan
What's next for the country's civil society now that COP29 is over and the spotlight has shifted?
The great Pakistan firewall and use of religion as a tool for digital authoritarianism
Pakistan has implemented a national firewall to regulate online content and mandated the registration of lawful VPN usage, with a ban on unregistered VPNs set to take effect from December 1.
Reflections on youth-led movements against state repression in Bangladesh and Indonesia
Grassroots approaches not only ensure the continuity of the movement but could also strengthen solidarity and trust among protesters, deepening the connection to local communities, which is vital for sustained resistance.
Explosions and one person dead show extremism is still a looming threat in Brazil
Less than two years after Brazil was rocked by a coup attempt, a one-man terrorist attack is reigniting the conversation about potential amnesty for the insurrectionists and consequences for the attackers.
Palau newspaper faces defamation charges over leaked tax report
"The council sees this legal action as an assault on press freedom and an attempt to undermine the accountability that is vital to democracy."
Impunity continues to threaten the work of journalists across Southeast Asia
"While there is inherent risk in journalism and media work, attacks against journalists cannot be normalized."
Can Trump help Pakistan's Imran Khan?
The United States is often seen as meddling in Pakistan's internal affairs, but supporters of Imran Khan hope Donald Trump may throw his support behind the imprisoned former Prime Minister.
Fresh threats to free press in Paraguay, Argentina, and Cuba
A round up of new laws, law proposals, and new forms of intimidation against journalists and civic organizations across the Americas.
Bukele boasts of his government's successes amid allegations of an attack on press freedom
Bukele's government promotes economic achievements amid international criticism of measures that restrict the freedom of the press in the country.
Trumpet call: How a second Trump term will affect US ties with India and Nepal
In South Asia, Trump's reelection will alter Washington's approach to China and India, with Nepal's impact hinging on the evolution of U.S. relations with its two large neighbours.
Hong Kong filmmaker Johnnie To slammed after saying city had ‘no soul’ in BBC interview
"I have always insisted on filming in Hong Kong. In fact, Hong Kong is very important to me. I think there is no soul now..."
A divided Moldova: Why the diaspora had to rescue President Maia Sandu's victory, and what's next?
The second Moldova lives mainly in Moldova's emptying villages and small towns, often lacking basic utilities like centralized water and sewage systems.
Why Iranian human rights groups remain silent as the Israel–Iran conflict escalates
The silence haunts Iranian human rights organizations regarding this looming conflict and raises critical questions about their priorities, independence, and future direction.
Chinese police ban ‘weird’ costumes and round up partygoers ahead of Halloween
Shanghai police were deployed in full force over the weekend to crack down on Halloween activities amid concerns that revelers might appear in politically sensitive costumes. They continued celebrating regardless.
In Azerbaijan, the government takes treason seriously — or does it?
What constitutes treason according to local legislation and is it being used fairly in Azerbaijan? The answer is in the details of the legislation and its implementation according to the lawyers.
Papuan news outlet Jubi attacked with Molotov bomb
"If press freedom continues to be intimidated, what's at stake is not only the right of journalists, but also the public's right to obtain information that is truthful, and balanced."
How not to dethrone an authoritarian leader: The case of Turkey’s Erdoğan
What explains Erdogan's prolonged hold on power, despite dire economics and increasing authoritarian and unpopular rule? Society-wide aversion to political activism and suspicion towards criticism of the government.
#FreeMechDara: Journalist who reported on cyber scams arrested in Cambodia
“The arrest of Mech Dara is a clear attempt to intimidate and silence him and other journalists in a country where press freedoms are routinely curtailed.”
Outrage over an attack on Senegalese politician Guy Marius Sagna in Togo
A Senegalese politician was attacked during a conference that a Togolese opposition party held in Togo. This country is becoming increasingly intolerant of even the mildest form of public criticism.
