Freedom of Expression
Functions & Objectives
Legal assistance on freedom of expression
* Analyzes complaints of violations of freedom of expression received by the Commission and conveys to the Commission its opinions and recommendations with regard to opening cases. Follows up on cases open before the Commission pertaining to violations of this right.
* Makes recommendations to the Commission regarding hearings to be granted during regular sessions and participates with the Commission in hearings having to do with alleged violations of freedom of expression. The Office of the Special Rapporteur also works with the parties to achieve friendly settlements within the framework of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights.
* If it is necessary, requests that the Commission solicit precautionary measures from the member States to protect the personal integrity of journalists and media correspondents who are facing threats or the risk of irreparable harm.
* Undertakes consultations and makes recommendations to some member States regarding the modification of existing laws and articles that impinge on freedom of expression. Also, encourages initiatives that tend to guarantee the broad exercise of freedom of expression, such as proposal legislation and other reforms.
* Corresponds with member States to request information on specific subjects related to freedom of expression. Drafting and Publication of Reports The staff of the Office of the Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression works on the drafting and publication of the thematic, country and annual reports. The research and evaluation of the freedom of expression situation in the hemisphere or of other issues related to this right are monitored by the Special Rapporteur. Protection of freedom of expression
* The Office receives the most current information through its informal hemispheric network related to possible violations of the right of freedom of expression in member States or progress in this matter. Information is submitted by various freedom of expression organizations and journalists in general. Due to this network, various sectors of civil society have been able to approach the Office to protect their right to impart, disseminate and receive information.
* In cases considered to involve a serious violation of freedom of expression, the Office of the Special Rapporteur issues press releases about the information it has received, expresses its concern to the authorities, and makes recommendations for reinstating this right. In other cases, the Office of the Special Rapporteur directly contacts government authorities to obtain further information and/or to request that the government take measures to rectify the harm that has been inflicted.
* The Office of the Special Rapporteur has set up a database comprising numerous press agencies, freedom of expression and human rights monitoring organizations, attorneys specializing in the field and universities, among others. Through this database, the Office distributes its main activities, reports, press releases, etc.
Contact us
Promotion and Diffusion of the importance of full respect for freedom of expression
The Special Rapporteur participate frequently in education, training and diffusion of freedom of expression activities. His participation on seminars, conferences and fora, among others, constitutes one of the main activities of the Office as a mechanism to promote the observance of the defense of freedom of expression.
Visits to countries
The Special Rapporteur accompanies the Commission in its in loco visits to the countries of the region. During the visits, the Office gathers information and investigates the most relevant problems related to the exercise of freedom of expression. The country visits have enabled the Office to establish a dialogue that has helped in the search for solutions and mechanisms to create an ideal atmosphere for the exercise of freedom of expression. During its visits, the Special Rapporteur attends meetings with State authorities, nongovernmental organizations, the media, journalists and other people interested in freedom of expression.