In an age where freedom is being channelled through the checkout lane, we can easily forget that freedom is not about the right to express one's opinion. Instead, freedom should be a weapon to speak truth against power. If we fail to do so, freedom turns into a value to worship and a toothless concept. Yet the history of human liberty reveals that our rights have often come with sacrifices and concessions, and that these have only been possible through earnest struggle.
Freedom is defined as the ability to make choices and act accordingly. However, there are many limits that come with this freedom. Some of these restrictions are our talents, our family situation, our job, our wealth, and even laws against murder, incest, burglary, and other offenses. However, these limitations are not as strong as we would like to believe. So the question of "how free are we really?" remains a crucial one.
There are some fundamental rights we should have to be free. Free expression and freedom of religion are cherished by most people. Gender equality and competitive elections are also cherished by most people. The strength of individual liberties varies by region. Americans are the strongest advocates of freedom, while Europeans prioritize equality and competitive elections over religion. Similarly, the right to worship freely is cherished more widely in Africa and sub-Saharan countries.
Opinion is also a vital part of a free society. People should be able to criticize government policy without being intimidated. Criminalizing those who express their opinions will only lead to bitterness and resentment. Governing institutions do not have the right to dictate what is right for free people. People must form their own opinions and evaluate the merits of their ideas. By restricting the right to express one's views, we deny ourselves of an essential element of democracy.
Political liberty might be a great good, but other forms of freedom of speech are also important. For example, free speech protects an individual's excellence, but political liberty is necessary for all of us to be free. Human beings are not fully self-sufficient; we need other people to survive and to fulfil our needs. Even the most ambitious thinkers cannot satisfy bodily needs alone. It is essential that we have the right to speak our mind, as it is our duty as citizens to help each other.
Whether or not freedom of speech is a fundamental right depends on the country. A recent study by the Pew Research Center found that people in 38 countries feel free to express themselves. The United States scored the highest median score of 5.73. However, when it comes to specific types of speech, there are sharp partisan divides and recency biases. So, how free are we really??, is the question.
In Egypt, for example, there are laws restricting free speech. In Egypt, criticizing the government is punishable by death. Similarly, freedom of association also protects individuals from harm. Thousands of people have protested, but they have been met with repressive measures and excessive force. Hundreds of people have been arrested and are facing lengthy court proceedings. Therefore, there is a need to protect the rights of citizens in such countries.
