An independent survey by The Future of Free Speech assessed 33 countries on free speech support. Scandinavia led, while authoritarian nations scored high. India ranked 24th, reflecting strong theoretical but weak practical protections from repressive laws. Recommendations include legal reforms, judicial oversight, and public awareness to bolster free speech rights.
Copyright infringement not intended
A new global survey report, titled ‘Who in the World Supports Free Speech?’ released.
The survey was conducted by The Future of Free Speech, an independent U.S.-based think tank.
It evaluated 33 countries based on public support for free speech and the protection of controversial speech.
Scandinavian countries dominated the top rankings, with Norway (87.9) and Denmark (87.0) securing the highest positions.
Some authoritarian-leaning nations like Hungary (85.5) and Venezuela (81.8) scored high despite government restrictions on free speech.
Support for free speech has declined in many democratic nations since 2021, with the United States, Israel, and Japan showing the biggest drops.
India was ranked 24th out of 33 countries surveyed in the Future of Free Speech Index.
It places India in the lower middle countries, with a score of 62.6, positioned between South Africa (66.9) and Lebanon (61.8).
There is strong public support for free speech in principle, however, the actual protection of free speech in practice is relatively low.
37% of respondents believe governments should be able to prevent criticism of their policies—the highest percentage among all surveyed countries. This contrasts sharply with countries like the UK (5%) and Denmark (3%).
Several legal frameworks and political practices have been identified as challenges to free speech in India.
These tools have been used to suppress political dissent, target journalists and activists, and create an environment where self-censorship is increasingly common.
Repealing or amending laws that suppress dissent, strengthening judicial oversight to prevent misuse of these laws, promoting a culture of open debate in educational institutions and media, and ensuring social media regulations don't lead to arbitrary censorship.
The need to align public perception with reality through awareness campaigns about constitutional free speech protections.
Must Read Articles:
Freedom of Speech and Restrictions
Source:
|
PRACTICE QUESTION Q. "Social media has revolutionized the exercise of freedom of speech but has also posed new challenges." Elaborate. 150 words |
© 2025 iasgyan. All right reserved
