Canadian Journalists for Free Expression

Articles by Canadian Journalists for Free Expression

CJFE

Review of free expression in Canada highlights “cult of secrecy”

In the 2013 Review of Free Expression in Canada, Canadian Journalists for Free Expression highlights a serious issue in Canada: a cult of secrecy. From the silencing of scientists to police posing as journalists to the surveillance of aboriginal activists, this pervasive issue threatens citizens’ right to free expression and undermines democratic society.

Ayşe Berktay in Bakırköy Women’s Prison. , Ali Berktay/PEN American Center

IFEX members call for Turkish translator, women’s rights activist to be freed

Two dozen IFEX members call on Turkey to free prominent translator and women’s rights activist Ayşe Berktay, winner of the 2013 PEN/Barbara Goldsmith Freedom to Write Award.

Link to: Canadian court to hear defining case on online defamation

Canadian court to hear defining case on online defamation

A Canadian court will soon hear a defamation case that arose out of a dispute between two ideologically opposed bloggers and that could have a major impact on free expression and what is considered defamatory under Canadian law.

Link to: Investigation launched into muzzling of Canadian government scientists

Investigation launched into muzzling of Canadian government scientists

In a letter dated March 27, 2013, the Office of the Information Commissioner of Canada announced that it would be launching an investigation into the government practices restricting scientists’ abilities to speak about their work.

http://www.swc-cfc.gc.ca/dates/iwd-jif/index-eng.html

Three influential journalists recognised on International Women’s Day

Three brave and influential female journalists from Russia, Colombia and Azerbaijan who have been intimidated and attacked with impunity are being recognised and celebrated on 8 March, International Women’s Day.

Members of the OAS participate in the OAS 42nd Assembly in June 2012, David Mercado/REUTERS

IFEX members concerned over undermining of OAS Special Rapporteur

Over 30 IFEX members express concern at a set of proposals put forth by the government of Ecuador and due to be discussed on 8 March in Ecuador that seek to reform the OAS Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression.

Tunisian writer Naziha Rjiba (pictured here in January) has received death threats., Naziha Rjiba/Facebook.

Death threats and attacks on freedom of expression intensify in Tunisia

Death threats, physical attacks, an emergence of hate speech and accusations of official censorship of critical media have escalated the perilous situation for freedom of expression in Tunisia, say over 20 IFEX members.

Link to: Canadian court ruling brings greater clarity to issue of hate speech

Canadian court ruling brings greater clarity to issue of hate speech

Canadian Journalists for Free Expression welcomes the more clearly and narrowly defined definition of hate speech contained in a decision by the Supreme Court, but continues to be concerned that hate speech remains partially in the purview of the human rights tribunals.