Handbook Highlights International Laws Protecting Journalists' Rights to Freedom of Speech Reporters Without Borders
go to original July 24, 2015

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An innovative handbook aims to become the ultimate tool for journalists and bloggers worldwide seeking guidance on the international legal framework protecting their rights to freedom of expression.

Produced by the Thomson Reuters Foundation, Reporters Without Borders, and Paul Hastings, the Defence Handbook for Journalists and Bloggers is unique in its kind as it focuses specifically on the application of international legal principles to the work of journalists. It also includes previous decisions and recommendations made by international and regional bodies and courts in relation to various aspects of freedom of speech.

Because journalists operate within an international legal framework, their rights to freedom of expression are protected but also restricted in specific circumstances. The Handbook looks at how freedom of speech is balanced with other rights and issues, such as the right to privacy, the protection of public morality, and the national security of states. It compiles rules and principles professionals can easily consult and apply, and provides critical practical guidance on important issues affecting their work: from the extent to which they can criticise public figures; to the circumstances in which state secrets can be released; to the different rules and principles regulating blasphemy laws.

“Journalists around the world are more and more under threat and often become targets,” said Monique Villa, CEO of the Thomson Reuters Foundation. “Terrorist groups, but also powerful lobbies and a number of governments are increasingly trying to censor the media, preventing opinion sharing and the release of vital information to the public. Now more than ever, journalists need to be brave, avoid self-censorship, and be aware that they can seek refuge in international law. This guide is a very powerful weapon.”

Read the rest at Reporters Without Borders

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