The launch of the award coincided with Arab Human Rights Day out of its belief that freedom of expression is the foundation of human rights. He added that a case in point would be that NHRC organised the first international conference of its kind in the Middle East on protecting journalists in dangerous situations and the role of the media in raising awareness of human rights violations and international humanitarian law.Īccording to Al Kuwari, the NHRC in March 2012, launched an award after Al Jazeera cameraman Ali Hassan Al Jaber, who was martyred on duty during the outbreak of the Libyan uprising in 2011. He added that misinformation spreading online and elsewhere significantly affects democratic and human rights institutions and spreads hate speech in society.Īl Kuwari said that NHRC had undertaken numerous initiatives to protect journalists and ensure their safety in its second founding decade, developing best practices in freedom of expression and countering incitement and hate speech. He explained that despite the freedom of the press, the safety of journalists and the freedom of expression are increasingly exposed to many threats, which affect safeguarding of the remaining human rights, especially given that the international community is facing multiple crises, conflicts, environmental crises, and challenges to people’s health and livelihoods. Under the slogan 'Freedom of expression as a driver for all other human rights', Al Kuwari said this year’s celebration is special as it marks the 30th anniversary since its proclamation in 1993 and is a global occasion celebrated by human rights defenders. Mohammad bin Saif Al Kuwari (pictured), on the occasion of this year’s World Press Freedom Day.Īl Kuwari noted the changes witnessed in the last decade in the press, especially in light of the proliferation of independent media and the emergence of digital technologies that allow the free flow of information over the Internet. Doha: Freedom of expression is one of the most critical indicators of a civilised society and its respect for human rights, affirmed Deputy Chairman of the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) Dr.

Of human freedom epictetus