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Freedom of expression is defined by scholars as the right to seek, receive and impart information and ideas without fear of surveillance, censorship, or laws that silence dissent.
To fully enjoy and appreciate this freedom, public awareness and advocacy are essential.
They play a crucial role in ensuring that individuals are informed about their rights and can effectively exercise them.
History has shown the effectiveness of public enlightenment and advocacy in promoting free speech in Zambia.
Public awareness invigorates interest in participating in governance and helps people realise their rights.
Organizations such as MISA Zambia, Panos Institute of Southern Africa, and the Media Liaison Committee have been instrumental in providing the necessary media freedom public education, leading to significant achievements in this area.
Advocacy involves educating communities, influencing policies, and providing direct support.
It reflects a commitment to fostering social justice and equitable change, which enhances public participation in freedom of expression.
Advocacy empowers individuals and communities to address and rectify injustices through increased awareness.
For instance, MISA Zambia advocates for freedom of expression as a core principle of democracy and good governance.
Through public engagements, they aim to educate grassroots communities about their rights.
MISA Zambia has been active in campaigning for the repeal of oppressive laws, such as certain provisions in the Zambian Penal Code, that undermine freedom of expression.
The organization employs various strategies, including legal tests, research, public education materials, training, and lobbying, to advance this cause.
MISA Zambia also works to highlight that freedom of expression is implicitly recognized in Article 20 of the Zambian Constitution, even though it is not explicitly enshrined.
Advocacy is crucial for amplifying the voices of citizens and fostering a sense of community solidarity to promote their causes.
Media activist Solomon Nyirenda underscores that advocacy and public awareness are pivotal in achieving media freedom.
“By leveraging advocacy, communities gain a superior understanding of their rights and the societal challenges they face.
This heightened awareness is essential for achieving a free society,” Nyirenda states.
Advocacy and public awareness have historically succeeded in advancing various rights, including those of women, education, and safety, demonstrating their vital role in protecting human rights and promoting social justice.
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