Freedom of Expression

Freedom of Expression is a fundamental human right enshrined in article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It refers to the ability of an individual or group of individuals to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds, regardless of frontiers, either orally, in writing or in print, in the form of art, or through any preferred media. Freedom of expression applies to ideas of all kinds including those that may be deeply offensive but within the armpits of the law.

Freedom of expression is one of the rights crucial to the work of human rights defenders. The Inter-American Court of human rights has highlighted that freedom of expression is a cornerstone upon which the very existence of a democratic society rests.

What is the role of MDDT in promoting Freedom of Expression in Cameroon?

MDDT-Cameroon in collaboration with the US Embassy Yaoundé through the Africa Regional Democracy Fund Program (ARDF) enhance the capacity of Human Rights Defenders which include but is not limited to ( CSOs, Lawyers, Journalists, law Enforcement Officers and Human rights activists, to effectively address the issues that surrounds  the creed  and limits to the rights to freedom of expression.  Effecting a series of round table discussion and brainstorming sessions, MDDT-Cameroon adopts strategies to horn the skills of HRDs to constructively implement the right to freedom of expression while understanding the clear cut difference between freedom of expression and Slander/Libel, upholding the rule of law and freedom of expression while carrying out their advocacy as HRDs.