International experts call for universal protection of freedom of expression

Today, international experts mandated by the UN, African Union, Organization of American States and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe will jointly call for states to ensure that all people in society can realise their right to freedom of expression without discrimination. The Joint Declaration on the Universality of the Right to Freedom of Expression [available in FR, SP and RU] by the four special rapporteurs, officials appointed to investigate and report on free of expression issues, has been produced with the assistance of ARTICLE 19.
It reiterates the the universal nature of freedom of expression, reflected in international and regional general human rights standards and national constitutions and its recognition as a core human value in all major cultural, philosophical and religious traditions around the world. It highlights also the importance of pen debate about different cultures, values, beliefs and practices can have in promoting understanding and tolerance, and in combating hatred and social division.