The State of Qatar Affirms Rights to Freedom of Speech and Expression

Image: QNA

The State of Qatar has affirmed its great interest in promoting and protecting the right to freedom of opinion and expression, and working to ensure the enjoyment of this right through national legislation that are compatible with international commitments in line with article 19.

This came in the statement of the State of Qatar delivered by Third Secretary of the permanent delegation of Qatar in Geneva Abdullah Behzad, during the interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, before the Human Rights Council at its 50th session, within the framework of Item three of the Council's agenda.

He said that obtaining information based on facts and evidence, through the media, the press and other outlets, is an important element for the promotion and protection of human rights, especially the right to freedom of opinion and expression.

In this regard, he referred to Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which clearly states that the exercise of the right to freedom of opinion and expression entails special duties and responsibilities, and may be subject to certain restrictions that ensure that the exercise of this right will not result in prejudice to the rights of others.

He called on the Special Rapporteur to focus in future reports on the negative impact of spreading false and misleading news and hate speech, especially on the Internet, taking into account the information provided by governments and all concerned parties in this regard, and conducting a constructive dialogue om the matter. 

Source: QNA