An Analysis of the Right of Freedom of Speech and Expression: A Case Study of Pakistan

Abstract

Freedom of expression includes not just the right to free speech but also the freedom to practice one's religion, exercise unrestricted democratic rights, access the media, and live without prejudice. However, these freedoms are not well protected by the existing dictatorial statutory framework. Religious leaders and a few other institutions regularly exploit the exceptions provided by the right to free expression to incite intolerance, accuse Muslims and other minority groups of committing sacrilege and restrict access to information due to "public safety" concerns. This research article seeks to explore the actual situation of fundamental rights protected by the constitution of Pakistan especially freedom of speech. In the last few years, we can see that there is a steep rise in the number of victims targeted because they expressed their views freely. Freedom of speech does not extend to public speaking only it also includes columns, editorials, journals, books, blogs or even expressing themselves on social media is also included in freedom of speech and recently the government passed the PECA act which limit or put restriction on fundamental freedom secured by the constitution to intimidate the populace. The author also aims to show the reasons, how, and why freedom of speech is limited or repressed. The author will also investigate the possible consequences and solutions available to solve this issue. Indeed, sexual harassment will not halt by simply ignoring it. The author will even try to highlight the fact that the government must protect and secure fundamental liberties enjoyed by people and not limit them.