Arab satellite TV charter sparks freedom of speech protests

Stan Beer
Saturday, 16 February 2008 08:43

IT Industry - Strategy

Outside the Arab world, UK-based international human rights organisation Article 19 condemned the Arab satellite TV charter as "a major setback". Article 19, which takes its name from from Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which guarantees freedom of expression, stated:

"The provisions, if implemented, will inevitably mute and hinder the only avenue for free expression in the region: satellite TV. They stand in direct contradiction with Article 32 of the Arab Charter on Human Rights which guarantees the right to information and freedom of expression and which was adopted by the Council of Ministers of the League of Arab States in 2004. The provisions also violate article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights ratified by many governments in the region."

“These principles constitute a major set back to freedom of the press and freedom of expression in the Arab world. They attempt to muzzle what has become the main source of independent news and information for millions of people in the region. Once again, intolerance and control prevail over freedom and the free and diverse flow of information.” said Dr. Agnes Callamard, Article 19’s executive director.