Quote:
Originally Posted by sandalwood
Here's an article about Australia's version:
https://www.yahoo.com/news/speech-li...160650820.html
You already know about the US. How about other countries? When I was in Thailand it was very open unless you said something negative about the royal family. You could even face jail time for negative words about them. Otherwise, speak on freely. |
Hi Tom,
It may have changed since you were there... Apparently the law where it is illegal to criticize the royal family in Thailand has also been extended to the military government. So if a person doesn't like the military government in Thailand, it's a good idea for them to keep their thoughts to themselves when in Thailand, or they could find themselves in the Thai slammer...
Freedom of speech reaches 'new low' in junta-ruled Thailand
http://www.reuters.com/article/us-th...0TZ15C20151216
I think nowhere on earth has the same free speech rights that the USA has. That's because in the USA, it's enshrined in the constitution.
One thing you may notice from time to time is that celebrities are much more likely to sue British newspapers for libel than US newspapers. That's because the freedom of speech laws are much weaker in the UK (or alternatively, libel laws are stronger). It's harder to get a conviction against a US newspaper or media outlet. Australia follows the UK in this regard, freedom of speech is further restricted, but perhaps you could say that reputations are better protected.
Of course there is no true 100% freedom of speech, as there are libel laws and slander laws which restrict it. Similarly, there are strict laws controlling various forms of advertising, especially in the health and finance industries.
Violate those and a person could be facing a hefty fine or even jail time (see Kevin Trudeau).
Just a few pence worth of thoughts...
Best wishes,
Dien