A diverse group of journalists, artists, activists, and academics have united to denounce escalating international censorship in a new document addressed to the prime minister, called the “Westminster Declaration.”
Concerned about labelling protected speech as “misinformation” and “disinformation,” the coalition, which features 136 signatories, includes high profile names such as Julian Assange, Jordan Peterson, and Edward Snowden, and it warns of increasing suppression of voices worldwide.
They argue that such censorship stifles democratic discourse and undermines the principles of free speech. The group criticises direct government actions and subtle methods like search engine manipulation.
They call for upholding Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, protecting the digital public square, and fostering open debate. The coalition, despite ideological differences, stands united to defend free speech. They emphasise the importance of preserving the digital public square, ensuring open debate, and protecting the right to express diverse opinions.
A Pushback Against ‘Censorship’
Mr. Young told The Epoch Times: “This is an attempt by a group of people who value free speech to push back against a new and growing rationale for censorship, which is to protect people from misinformation, disinformation, malinformation, and hate speech.He added, “We believe that, in the words of the Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis, the best remedy for bad speech is ’more speech, not enforced silence.'”
Another signatory, Efrat Fenigson, an Israeli independent journalist, podcaster, and public speaker, shared her perspective with The Epoch Times.
Speaking via text, she underscored the necessity of challenging established narratives, especially during times of crisis. Ms. Fenigson pledged her allegiance to “team humanity,” emphasising the critical role of free speech in navigating challenging times.
She said: “We live in an era where we must choose sides. We must be for or against something. We can’t observe situations neutrally anymore. When we advocate for ’team humanity,' especially during emergencies, we face vilification.
‘Dissident’ Voices ‘United’
Twenty-five years ago Ms. Fenigson served in the IDF as a soldier in the intelligence forces, and recently has been reporting about the Israel-Hamas war.She added: “I’ve been raising inconvenient questions that challenge the reality served to us by mainstream media and the institutions, putting me in an inconvenient spot and a target to personal attacks.
“Dissident voices like those united in the Westminster Declaration represent the foundation of human prosperity and the beacon of hope for a free society. If we succumb to silencing and manipulation, we allow the dimming of our light and the erosion of our sovereignty. I‘ll forever stand with ’team humanity,’ especially during challenging times.”
Other prominent signatories include Peter Hitchens, the author Richard Dawkins, and prominent journalist Julia Hartley-Brewer.
The statement also raises concerns about the recent Online Safety Bill, saying: “Interference with the right to free speech suppresses valid discussion about matters of urgent public interest, and undermines the foundational principles of representative democracy.
“We recognise that words can sometimes cause offence, but we reject the idea that hurt feelings and discomfort, even if acute, are grounds for censorship.
“Open discourse is the central pillar of a free society, and is essential for holding governments accountable, empowering vulnerable groups and reducing the risk of tyranny. Every equality and justice campaign in history has relied on an open forum to voice dissent.”
