Freedom of Expression
Press Release 17/99
THREE RAPPORTEURS OF FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION WILL MEET IN LONDON
On November 25 and 26 the three rapporteurs for freedom of expression will meet in London representing the United Nations (UN), the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and the Organization of American States (OAS). Mr. Adid Hussain, UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Opinion and Expression, Mr. Freimut Duve, OSCE Freedom of the Media Representative, and Mr. Santiago A. Canton, Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression at the OAS, will participate in the International Seminar "International Mechanisms to promote Freedom of Expression" organized by Article XIX, a non-governmental organization based in London and dedicated to the defense and promotion of freedom of expression.
During this Seminar, the rapporteurs of freedom of expression will discuss the main challenges to this right all over the world. In addition, they will present the activities that they are developing in relation to the protection and promotion of this right. Also, they will analyze common issues such as access to information, joint projects with non-governmental organizations, the derogation of contempt laws, new ways of strengthening rapporteurs mandates and joint initiatives. The seminar will conclude with a joint declaration on the present and future principal aspects related to the promotion of the freedom of thought and expression in the world.
"This meeting will be an excellent opportunity to coordinate activities that will lead to a more effective protection of freedom of expression all over the world," Mr. Santiago Canton said. "Without any doubt, the organization of this event proves the international interest on the promotion of the freedom of expression, a fundamental right for the consolidation of the democracy," he stated.
Santiago A. Canton
Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression
Washington, D.C.
November, 1999