The Importance Of Freedom Of Speech

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Introduction: “Freedom of speech is guaranteed and protected by the first amendment of the United States constitution.” (Newseum, 1997) Connotations of freedom of speech have varied in different eras of history. Part of the bills of rights in the first amendment forbids national government from limiting freedom of expression. Freedom of speech refers to a person’s right to say, write and express what he or she believes. Freedom of speech provides open platform for debate.
“Every citizen shall have the right to freedom of speech and expression, and there shall be freedom of the press, subject to any reasonable restrictions imposed by law in the interest of the glory of Islam or the integrity, security or defence of Pakistan or any part thereof, friendly relations with foreign States, public order, decency or morality, or in relation to contempt of court, commission of or incitement to an offence.” It is stated in the article 19 of the constitution of Pakistan. (Article 19)
Media has never been consistent in Pakistan. Media plays a vital role in today’s world and especially in our society where people rely on it. Normally freedom of speech is taken as a notion that every person has a natural right to even speak his mind or share his opinion without interference, threats, and censorships. But the situation is pretty much different when it comes to freedom of expression on media. Media of Pakistan is mostly free from restrictions and obligations apart from the moral and