The 76th radio program as part of the Center for Research and Security Studies’ (CRSS) counter-radicalization initiative Ulasi Taroon (Social Cohesion) was aired on July 12, 2019, on the theme of “Freedom of Expression, a Right with Responsibility”.
A detailed discussion was carried out on the topic that every individual – though – has the right to express one’s thoughts but with certain limitations and responsibilities.
The first guest on show, Mr. Amjad Aziz Malik, a freelance journalist, opined that freedom of expression is the constitutional right of every individual but it is one of the most misunderstood concepts where we are not well aware of its true essence. This is precisely the reason why we feel our right of freedom of expression violated when we are stopped from any unethical discussion. The freedom of expression can and ought not be discussed in isolation from its limitations and sensitivities living in the society. This also requires an overwhelming focus on the human rights education to foster better understanding and peaceful coexistence among the members of the community. We must believe in and practice constructive criticism; whether its directed at the government or the society.
Privatization of media is the biggest example of freedom of expression including social media which allows every individual in the society to express their views on the issues of concern. This freedom comes with an onus to not abuse this right. The role of PEMRA is crucial for the oversight mechanism to keep a proper check and balance over all media channels for responsible dissemination of news and information.
The second guest on show, Mr. Fida Malik, President, Khyber Union of Journalist, said that it is our legal, constitutional, moral and ethical right to express ourselves and criticize where we deem important but hate speech in any way is not acceptable and justified. However, the limitations of freedom of expression may vary from culture to culture. Self-censorship is the best practice to work progressively and within our domain. Our media houses are responsible and journalists are educated enough practice their rights responsibly.
The third guest on phone, Mr. Sangeen Khan, an advocate by profession, said that freedom of expression is not an absolute idea it must not lead to violating others rights. However, the freedom of expression is critical to the nourishment of democracy.
About Ulasi Taroon
Ulasi Taroon is a counter radicalization initiative of Center for Research and Security Studies that aims to address the radicalization challenges, extremist ideologies and foster social cohesion through a discourse anchored in the core constitutional values which are fundamentally essential prerequisites for social peace and harmony. The endeavor aims to cultivate and sensitize the people of KP in the core values in the Pakistani constitution and our social contract. It’s an attempt to highlight the criticality of abiding by these ideals – such as adherence to rule of law, primacy and sanctity of constitution, equal citizenry, responsible citizenship, respect for fundamental human rights, tolerance for diversity and different opinions, inclusive democracy and good governance – as a measure of fostering social cohesion and peaceful co-existence.