Published by: Rishu Ranjan
College: Asian Law College, Noida
Abstract
Freedom of a speech and expression is a fundamental human right that allows individuals to freely
express their thoughts, opinion and ideas without fear of censorship or punishment. However when it
comes to refugees, this essential write often gets violated, placing them in a vulnerable position.
Freedom of a speech and expression as enshrined international human rights law, acknowledges the
inherent dignity and what of every individual, permitting them to communicate and disseminate
information freely. it allows for the flourishing of democracy creativity and critical thinking. This right is
protected under various legal instruments including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and
international Covenant on civil and political rights.
Keywords:- freedom of speech and expression, refugees, human right, plight
The plight of refugees and their right to freedom of speech
Refugees who have been forced to free their home countries due to persecution, violence or human
right abuse, find themselves in precarious situations where there freedom of speech and expression is
severely restricted. Here are some key reasons why there rights are violated:-
- Limited Access to information
refugees face significant barriers in assessing information and news that are essential for forming
opinion and participating in public discourse. Language barriers lack of internet access and limited
resources can hinder their ability to a state in formed about local and global events. - Intimidation and Repression in host countries
in some host countries refugees may experience intimidation harassment and even violence when
attempting to voice their opinion or express themselves freely this can be fuel by xenophobia, cultural
differences or political tensions, for the marginalising the already vulnerable refugee population. - Censorship by home countries
Refugee sometimes face the unwelcome reach of their home countries. Government who seek to
silence dissent and discourage any form of expression that challenges their authority. Through targeting
social media accounts or monitoring communication channels, refugees may fear repercussions for
speaking out against their country of origin.
4.Lack of legal protection
Refugees are displaced from their home countries due to conflict, persecution or other forms of
violence. As they seek asylum in foreign Nations the face legal challenges and uncertainties which
comprises their ability to exercise their freedom of a speech. In some cases lack of legal recognition may
render them voiceless as their opinion and grievances remain unheard. - Language barriers
language acts as a powerful tool, self expression communication and integration into new societies.
However refugees of in face significant language barriers especially when force to fleet to a country with
lack of advocacy and protection for the perpetuates their vulnerability and hinders there pursuit of
justice and equitable treatment.
Outcasting of refugees and its impact on freedom of speech and expression
out casting of refugees, where they are isolated and post to the fringes of society has far reaching
consequence on their ability to exercise their freedom of a speech and expression. Fearing reprisal
refugees Resort to self censorship, suppressing their own opinion and a trifle there creative expressions.
This silencing effect hampers the diversity of perspective and inhibit social and intellectual progress.
There ability to express themselves through their language, traditions and art forms become
compromise leading to a diminishing of their overall freedom of a speech and expression. There
opportunities for engagement and participation in public life diminish. This lack of integration limits
their changes to contribute to public debates and have their voices heard, impacting democratic
principles that underpin the freedom of a speech and expression.
Conclusion
Violation of freedom of a speech and expression among refugees is a Grave concern that should not be
taken lightly. It imparts their ability to engage in public dis course, stifles their creativity and restrains
there capacity to contribute meaningful to society. As individuals and societies we must strike to address
these challenges protect the rights of refugees and foster environments were freedom of speech and
expression can truly flourish for all, regardless of their background.