FREEDOM of expression is a cornerstone of democracy, and its importance in a democratic country like Zambia cannot be overstated.
This is because freedom of expression allows citizens to access diverse information and viewpoints, enabling them to make informed decisions and participate meaningfully in the democratic process.
Open expression fosters healthy public debate and dialogue, allowing different perspectives to be heard and considered. This leads to better decision-making and policies that reflect the will of the people.
In fact, freedom of expression is interconnected with other fundamental rights, such as freedom of assembly and association.
It empowers individuals to advocate for their rights and the rights of others.
By allowing the free exchange of ideas, freedom of expression promotes innovation, creativity and social progress. It enables society to challenge outdated norms and embrace new ideas.
However, freedom of expression in Zambia has faced significant challenges, particularly when it comes to political discourse.
While the country has made strides in promoting human rights and freedom of expression, there are still instances where this freedom is abused by politicians.
Politicians have been known to spread false information to manipulate public opinion and create confusion.
This misuse of freedom of expression undermines trust in the political system and can lead to social unrest.
United Nations Special Rapporteur on the right to freedom of expression and opinion Irene Khan is right to call on stakeholders, especially politicians, to be factual and truthful.
According to Ms Khan, politicians in Zambia should avoid polarisation in their discourse because freedom of expression is not absolute.
Indeed, freedom of expression not being absolute means that there are certain limitations and restrictions on this right. While freedom of expression is a fundamental human right, it is not without boundaries.
Laws may restrict it to prevent harm, such as legislation against hate speech, defamation, and incitement to violence.
Restrictions may be imposed to maintain public order and safety, such as prohibiting speech that could incite riots or panic.
Governments may also limit freedom of expression to protect national security, such as censoring information that could compromise military operations.
Freedom of expression may be limited to protect the rights and reputations of others, such as preventing slander or libel.
It is important therefore for politicians in Zambia to use freedom of expression responsibly as this is crucial for maintaining a healthy and stable democracy in the country.
Responsible expression helps foster unity and social cohesion by avoiding divisive and inflammatory language that can create tensions and conflicts in the country.
Politicians who use their platform responsibly can build trust with the public, enhancing their credibility and fostering a positive relationship with their constituents.
Furthermore, responsible expression encourages constructive dialogue and debate, allowing for exchange of ideas and solutions to societal issues without resorting to personal attacks or misinformation.
By using freedom of expression responsibly, politicians in Zambia can protect the rights and reputations of individuals and groups, preventing harm and promoting respect for all members of society.
Moreover, responsible use of freedom of expression upholds democratic values such as tolerance, respect and the rule of law, thereby contributing to a more inclusive and fair society.
Therefore, by using their freedom of expression responsibly, politicians in Zambia can contribute to a more informed, peaceful and democratic society.
Freedom of expression should be used responsibly
FREEDOM of expression is a cornerstone of democracy, and its importance in a democratic country like Zambia cannot be overstated.
This is because freedom of expression allows citizens to access diverse information and viewpoints, enabling them to make informed decisions and participate meaningfully in the democratic process.
Open expression fosters healthy public debate and dialogue, allowing different perspectives to be heard and considered. This leads to better decision-making and policies that reflect the will of the people.
In fact, freedom of expression is interconnected with other fundamental rights, such as freedom of assembly and association.
It empowers individuals to advocate for their rights and the rights of others.
By allowing the free exchange of ideas, freedom of expression promotes innovation, creativity and social progress. It enables society to challenge outdated norms and embrace new ideas.
However, freedom of expression in Zambia has faced significant challenges, particularly when it comes to political discourse.
While the country has made strides in promoting human rights and freedom of expression, there are still instances where this freedom is abused by politicians.
Politicians have been known to spread false information to manipulate public opinion and create confusion.
This misuse of freedom of expression undermines trust in the political system and can lead to social unrest.
United Nations Special Rapporteur on the right to freedom of expression and opinion Irene Khan is right to call on stakeholders, especially politicians, to be factual and truthful.
According to Ms Khan, politicians in Zambia should avoid polarisation in their discourse because freedom of expression is not absolute.
Indeed, freedom of expression not being absolute means that there are certain limitations and restrictions on this right. While freedom of expression is a fundamental human right, it is not without boundaries.
Laws may restrict it to prevent harm, such as legislation against hate speech, defamation, and incitement to violence.
Restrictions may be imposed to maintain public order and safety, such as prohibiting speech that could incite riots or panic.
Governments may also limit freedom of expression to protect national security, such as censoring information that could compromise military operations.
Freedom of expression may be limited to protect the rights and reputations of others, such as preventing slander or libel.
It is important therefore for politicians in Zambia to use freedom of expression responsibly as this is crucial for maintaining a healthy and stable democracy in the country.
Responsible expression helps foster unity and social cohesion by avoiding divisive and inflammatory language that can create tensions and conflicts in the country.
Politicians who use their platform responsibly can build trust with the public, enhancing their credibility and fostering a positive relationship with their constituents.
Furthermore, responsible expression encourages constructive dialogue and debate, allowing for exchange of ideas and solutions to societal issues without resorting to personal attacks or misinformation.
By using freedom of expression responsibly, politicians in Zambia can protect the rights and reputations of individuals and groups, preventing harm and promoting respect for all members of society.
Moreover, responsible use of freedom of expression upholds democratic values such as tolerance, respect and the rule of law, thereby contributing to a more inclusive and fair society.
Therefore, by using their freedom of expression responsibly, politicians in Zambia can contribute to a more informed, peaceful and democratic society.