Protection of journalists and media freedom 2012, para. 53
Paragraph
Paragraph text
Another threat to the freedom of journalists and to press freedom is the increasing use of criminal law on defamation, slander or libel by public officials to silence criticism regarding their personal activities or public policies. The mere use of such "judicial harassment" generates a climate of fear and a "chilling effect" which encourages self-censorship. This issue is further explored under section D below on criminalization of expression.
Legal status
Non-negotiated soft law
Body
Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression
Document type
Special Procedures' report
Means of adoption
N.A.
Topic(s)
Civil & Political Rights
Equality & Inclusion
Governance & Rule of Law
Year
2012
Paragraph type
Other
Reference
SR Freedom of Opinion, Report to the HRC (2012), A/HRC/20/17, para. 53.