RESEARCH 19 - Journalism and the freedom of speech

JOURNALISM AND FREEDOM OF SPEECH

In journalism they believe that they should have the right to hold your own    opinions and to express them freely without government interference.

This includes the right to express your views aloud or through:

• Published articles, books or leaflets
• Television or radio broadcasting
• Works of art
• Communication of the internet   

For instance the right to the freedom of expression is vital for journalists and the other people working in the media. The journalists must be unrestricted to criticize the state without fear of prosecution; however, the media does have to bear in mind other human rights, such as a person's right to respect for their private life, as this is something, which is important to other people as they cannot invade other people’s privacy. The law also protects their freedom to receive information from other people for example, being part of an audience or reading a magazine. .

 Here are some of the restrictions they have to face:

Although journalists have the freedom to express your views and beliefs, they have a duty to behave responsibly and to respect other people’s rights. Public authorities may restrict their right to the freedom of expression if they can show that their action has a proper basis in law, and is necessary and ‘proportionate’ in order to:

• Protect national security, territorial integrity or public safety.
• Prevent disorder or crime.
• Protect health or morals.
• Protect the rights and reputations of other people.
• Prevent the disclosure of information received in confidence.
• Maintain the authority and impartiality of the judiciary.

It may be permissible to restrict your freedom of expression if, for example, you express views that encourage racial or religious hatred.

However, the relevant public authority must show that the restriction is ‘proportionate’, in other words the restriction must be no more than is necessary, appropriate and not excessive in the circumstances.

Overall, I believe that although journalists should have their restrictions when going out to find their sources for news, I also believe that it is right for them to have their personal opinion about the issue, because they shouldn’t be seen as having to be treated differently. Although I do agree with some of the restrictions given to them, as it is beneficial for them also.

Sources:

 http://www.equalityhumanrights.com/human-rights/what-are-human-rights/the-human-r http://www.newspapersoc.org.uk/press-freedomights-act/freedom-of-expression/