Free Speech Debate

Thirteen languages. Ten principles. One conversation.

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1We – all human beings – must be free and able to express ourselves, and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas, regardless of frontiers.»
2We defend the internet and all other forms of communication against illegitimate encroachments by both public and private powers.»
3We require and create open, diverse media so we can make well-informed decisions and participate fully in political life.»
4We speak openly and with civility about all kinds of human difference.»
5We allow no taboos in the discussion and dissemination of knowledge.»
6We neither make threats of violence nor accept violent intimidation.»
7We respect the believer but not necessarily the content of the belief.»
8We are all entitled to a private life but should accept such scrutiny as is in the public interest.»
9We should be able to counter slurs on our reputations without stifling legitimate debate.»
10We must be free to challenge all limits to freedom of expression and information justified on such grounds as national security, public order, morality and the protection of intellectual property.»

What’s missing?

Is there a vital area we have not addressed? A principle 11? An illuminating case study? Read other people's suggestions and add your own here. Or start the debate in your own language.
Home | Archives | Tunisia
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Two years on, is it still spring in Tunisia?

On 17 December 2010, Tunisian street vendor Mohamed Bouazizi set fire to himself – and began the Arab spring. Despite Islamist pressures on free speech and women’s rights, Rory McCarthy sees continued cause for hope.

Published on: December 17, 2012 | Principle 1 | Comments: 0

Tunisia: a chance for internet freedom? thumbnail

Tunisia: a chance for internet freedom?

Published on: July 13, 2012 | Principle 2 | Comments: 0

48th Munich Security Conference

World Press Freedom events end with “Carthage Declaration”

The declaration calls on governments, media outlets and Unesco to enhance press freedom around the world.

Published on: May 7, 2012 | Comments: 0

Moez Chakchouk

Tunisian Internet Agency defends net neutrality

Online censorship is futile as it can almost always be circumvented, says Moez Chakchouk, the head of the Tunisian Internet Agency.

Published on: April 12, 2012 | Principle 2 | Comments: 0

Free Speech Debate is a research project of the Dahrendorf Programme for the Study of Freedom at St Antony's College in the University of Oxford. www.freespeechdebate.ox.ac.uk