No one given the power to snatch one’s freedom of expression
No one has been given the power to take away one's freedom of expression, chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Nasima Begum said yesterday.
She was speaking at a joint virtual meeting hosted by the NHRC and international human rights organisation Article 19, which works to protect freedom of expression, said a press release from NHRC.
Nasima Begum was the chief guest in this event while Kazi Reazul Hoque, former chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission, was the guest of honour. The programme was chaired by Faruq Faisel, regional director of Article 19 South Asia.
In her speech, Nasima Begum further said, "The right to express one's opinion is a universal right. But freedom of expression does not mean hurting others. In this case, every citizen is expected to behave responsibly."
She also emphasised the need for public-private initiatives for protection and promotion of human rights in the country. "He who commits corruption or conceals information does so in violation of the rights of others." Therefore, the National Human Rights Commission has taken initiative to work in coordination with the Information Commission and the Anti-Corruption Commission.
Kazi Reazul Hoque said, "Freedom of expression is a fundamental right. It is a constitutional duty to protect this right. Therefore, the protection of those who exercise this right, including journalists, must be ensured. At the same time, it is necessary to create an environment where the media can work independently. ''
Faruq Faisel said, ''With a free and independent media environment, the personal safety and security of journalists is inextricably linked. Bangladesh lags behind in South Asia in terms of security of media workers and freedom of expression. This situation has tarnished the progress of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of Bangladesh. The 16th goal of the SDGs is to establish good governance, such as peace, justice, strong institutions and an inclusive society. To achieve this goal, it is important to ensure freedom of expression as a whole."
At the beginning of the program, peace and prayers were sought for all those who passed away from Covid-19 and those killed in the blast at a mosque in Narayanganj. The NHRC chairman also called for swift investigation and action against the culprits if any evidence of negligence is found in the blast.
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