The atrocities and killing of innocent people in France have shocked the free world and put into question one of the fundamental rights of democracy – freedom of expression.
Living in a democratic country and being one who relishes the value of being able to freely express my ideas and beliefs, I cannot remain passive after such events.
Malta is emerging and establishing itself as a secular and pluralistic society where citizens of different races, culture and beliefs live in harmony, side by side.
One of the pillars that makes such an existence possible is freedom of expression and religion. How apt are Voltaire’s words at this point in time: “I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.”
But does everyone abide by such a principle? How many of us communicate in a respectful and decent way when disagreeing with others? Bursts of anger and hatred often appear on blogs.
So one rightly asks, is freedom of expression absolute? Are there any limits? Can anyone say anything and offend anyone in the name of freedom of expression? Should we live in a world, free, yes, but under the threat of fear?
It was reported in The Sunday Times of Malta (January 11) that a French national reacted after the incident by stating: “You leave home to go shopping, go to work, and you don’t know if you’ll come home.” Is this the world we want to live in?
Judge Giovanni Bonello succinctly affirms “it is the fine line between the use of a right and its abuse that has been cast under the spotlight by the Paris attack”.
Freedom of expression carries with it duties and responsibilities. Though there is no justification for the killing that occurred due to difference of opinion, one has to be respectful and show dignity even when one differs with other opinions.
It was well known that the authors of Charlie Hebdo were very often vulgar, provocative and disrespectful in their satirical caricatures and comments.
Though freedom of expression is one of the essential pillars of a democratic society, it shouldn’t be unqualified and without limits.
The dignity of the human person should always be the measure of what one says and writes.