Manama: King Hamad Bin Eisa Al Khalifa has said that freedom of thought, expression and opinion is a fundamental component in Bahrain’s respect for human rights and civil, political, economic and cultural liberties. He also said it is an indicator of the progress, openness, tolerance of Bahraini society and its acceptance of diverse opinions.
“This freedom is a true translation of our belief that constructive substantive criticism and responsible freedom are a fundamental pillar of reform, modernisation and economic and social progress,” King Hamad said while greeting journalists on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, which was observed on Thursday under the theme ‘Power’s Balance: Media, Justice and the Rule of Law’.
“Free and responsible press will remain the top priority of our reform process as an inherent human right, an indication of the vitality of our democratic experience and a true reflection of reality and its challenges,” King Hamad said on Wednesday.
However, he stressed that freedom had rules and could not mean the abuse of others or exposing their private lives, or defaming them.
“It does not mean harming national security or public order through false news, rumours, sectarian or racist views or provocative calls for sabotage and terrorism. And it does not include the violation of society’s values, ethics and morals. The international community must play an active role in deepening commitment to the ethics and values of expressing opinion, as affirmed by religious teachings and international laws and covenants in order to protect the rights of our societies to security and peace,” he said.
Media and digital platforms, including social media, are not merely channels for disseminating news and opinions, King Hamad said.
“They are influential entities with ever-expanding vocational, ethical, social and legal rights to boost the awareness in society, protect civil peace, disseminate the values of tolerance and moderation and protect young people from extremist and deviant ideas.”
