Freedom of Expression

Announcement

IACHR and SRFOE publish consultation questionnaire for the preparation of the thematic report on the closure of civic space in the Americas

June 9, 2022

Washington, D.C. - The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) and its Office of the Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression (SRFOE) are publishing this June 9 a consultation questionnaire for the preparation of the thematic report on the closure of civic space in the Americas. The main objective is to gather information that will help identify the obstacles that hinder the exercise of freedom of association, assembly, expression, access to the Internet and, consequently, limit public space in the hemisphere.

The IACHR and its SRFOE invite States, academic organizations, and civil society in the region to respond to the consultation questionnaire, providing examples of situations that reflect patterns and/or structural obstacles, as well as good practices regarding public spaces. Also, if available, copies of the regulatory frameworks, policies and practices regarding the issues raised in the questionnaire should be attached.

On the other hand, the IACHR and its SRFOE expect to receive information on the public policies and practices that the States have developed regarding respect for freedom of association, assembly, expression and access to the Internet, linked to compliance with the obligations imposed by the American Convention on Human Rights. In addition, they emphasize that they seek to gather information on the role of journalism and the practice of the media in the treatment of issues related to freedom of association and assembly.

Finally, all studies, reports, research, and information in general related to the closure of public spaces will be received and studied in order to identify the main risks that citizens face when exercising civil liberties in civic spaces. It should be noted that the period for receiving information through the consultation questionnaire will remain open until July 1, 2022, at 11:59 pm local time in Washington, DC.

Access the consultation questionnaire here.

The Office of the Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression (SRFOE) is an office created by the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) to encourage the hemispheric defense of the right to freedom of thought and expression, considering its fundamental role in the consolidation and development of the democratic system.

The IACHR is a principal and autonomous organ of the Organization of American States (OAS), whose mandate arises from the OAS Charter and the American Convention on Human Rights. The Inter-American Commission is mandated to promote the observance and defense of human rights in the region and acts as a consultative body to the OAS in this area. The IACHR is composed of seven independent members who are elected by the OAS General Assembly in their personal capacity and do not represent their countries of origin or residence.