THE CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN 1973 AND FREEDOM OF SPEECH; USES AND ABUSES

Abstract

One of the most valuable rights that a person has is the freedom of speech and expression. People have the freedom to express their thoughts and ideas on what they believe ought to happen because of this right. The world's constitutions and international human rights treaties guarantee the right to freedom of speech and expression. The right to freedom of speech and expression is likewise protected under Article 19 of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan's 1973 Constitution, subject to certain limitations. These include the desire for the glory of Islam, Pakistan's integrity, security, or defence in whole or in part, cordial ties with other countries, public order, morality, or decency, as well as the conduct of or encouragement to commit crimes. The distinction between "right" and "restriction" is becoming less clear in Pakistan today. The basic right to freedom of speech and expression is typically misused, even in the face of explicit limits.