Robust legal protections for religious freedom are essential in a liberal society. However, this does not mean religious activity is exempt from liberal, secular laws or ring-fenced from robust public criticism. By privileging religious sensibilities in secular institutions while simultaneously censoring peaceful religious speech, the UK has betrayed this principle. » Read More
Journalists and democracy watchdogs have warned the online safety bill joint committee that “creating state-backed censorship of lawful communications” could prevent “democracy taking its course”. Silkie Carlo, director of Big Brother Watch, said: “There’s a reason reinventing the wheel with freedom of expression is a very dangerous thing, and detaching from the rule of law is a very dangerous…
Speaking to the parliamentary home affairs committee, former professional footballers Anton Ferdinand and Marvin Sordell discussed racist abuse received online. Ferdinand admitted that he had become used to it, saying: “I’m better prepared for it. It still hurts me. It still cuts me. But I’m better prepared.” Sordell said that “it is clear to see”…
