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 | Whistleblowing
MI5 should increase oversight thumbnail

MI5 should increase oversight

Former MI5 agent Annie Machon speaks about how the intelligence services need to increase internal oversight.

Published on: December 3, 2012 | Principle 10 | Comments: 0

When is it justified to break the Offiacal Secrets Act? thumbnail

When is it justified to break the Official Secrets Act?

Former MI5 agent Annie Machon speaks about when it is in her opinion justified and necessary to break the Official Secrets Act

Published on: December 3, 2012 | Principle 10 | Comments: 0

Why governments can crush Wikileaks but not the idea behind it thumbnail

Why governments can crush Wikileaks but not the idea behind it

While Wikileaks may be closed down, the idea and technology is in the world now.

Published on: December 3, 2012 | Principle 10 | Comments: 0

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A former British agent makes the case for whistleblowing.

Former British MI5 agent Annie Machon revealed, together with David Shayler, alleged criminal behaviour within the agency. In an interview with Sebastian Huempfer she speaks about the need for official channels through which whistleblowers can voice their concerns.

Published on: December 3, 2012 | Principle 10 | Comments: 1

Julian Assange Appears At Court To Fight Extradition Move

Julian Assange: a journalist?

In 2010, Wikileaks released its first tranche of classified US state department cables. If Julian Assange, founder of the whistle-blowing website, qualifies as a journalist then he would be protected under the first amendment, writes Katie Engelhart.

Published on: February 10, 2012 | Principle 10 | Comments: 4

Anat Kamm begins her four and a half year prison sentence (Photo by Uriel Sinai/Getty Images)

The Israeli whistleblower

Israeli whistleblower Anat Kamm leaked 2,000 classified military documents obtained during her service with the Israeli Defence Force. Maryam Omidi discusses the claims of national security versus public interest.

Published on: February 1, 2012 | Principle 10 | Comments: 2

South African President Jacob Zuma (Photo by Daniel Berehulak/Getty Images)

South Africa’s secrecy bill

In November 2011, South Africa’s lower house approved the protection of state information bill – legislation, which if passed can sentence those found guilty to up to 25 years' imprisonment, writes Maryam Omidi.

Published on: January 26, 2012 | Principle 10 | 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