Global Free Speech Update
Japan: a UN working group slams the conviction of two greenpeace activists who had disclosed evidence of corruption in the country’s controversial whaling industry, saying it raises significant free speech and free press concerns under the ICCPR.
South Africa: the ANC is vetting a media reform bill that would establish a tribunal with the authority to punish journalists for the content of their reports. Party officials insist that the bill is still being tweaked, but free speech stakeholders are alarmed that it is even being considered.
Mexico: The Committee to Protect Journalists calls on the national government to end the culture of impunity that has allowed attacks against journalists and media workers to go unpunished. More than 30 journalists have been killed in Mexico over the past 4 years, most in retaliation for reporting on organized crime.
Costa Rica: access to the internet is a fundamental right, so declares the Constitutional Court in Costa Rica. The government will reportedly prioritize the development of telecommunication technology across the country in light of the ruling. Last year, the high court in France reached a similar conclusion, striking down a three-strikes law that barred internet access as a punishment for computer piracy.
-Kathleen Bergin
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