On the Declaration on human rights defenders 2011, para. 60
Paragraph- Paragraph text
- Nonetheless, ideas that "offend, shock or disturb" are protected under the right of freedom of expression. This is a crucial part of what is required for a "democratic society" to exist. Pluralism, tolerance and broadmindedness are particularly important in a democratic society. Democracy does not simply mean that the views of the majority must always prevail: a balance must be achieved which ensures the fair and proper treatment of minorities and avoids any abuse of a dominant position. The State is the ultimate guarantor of the principle of pluralism, a role that entails positive obligations to secure the effective enjoyment of rights. These obligations are of particular importance for persons holding unpopular views or belonging to minorities, because they are more vulnerable to victimization.
- Legal status
- Non-negotiated soft law
- Body
- Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders
- Document type
- Special Procedures' report
- Means of adoption
- N.A.
- Topic(s)
- Civil & Political Rights
- Equality & Inclusion
- Governance & Rule of Law
- Social & Cultural Rights
- Person(s) affected
- Ethnic minorities
- Year
- 2011
- Paragraph type
- Other
- Reference
- SR Human Rights Defenders, Report to the UNGA (2011), A/66/203, para. 60.
- Paragraph number
- 60
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134 relationships, 134 entities