Youth Policy Summit 2024 Ignites Debate on the Future of Freedom of Expression in Bangladesh

Youth Policy Summit 2024 Ignites Debate on the Future of Freedom of Expression in Bangladesh

As Bangladesh navigates through political transitions, the concept of freedom of expression continues to be a pivotal aspect of the nation’s democratic discourse. At the Youth Policy Summit 2024, organized by the Institute of Informatics and Development (IID) and Youth for Policy (YfP), young leaders from diverse backgrounds gathered at the iconic Bangla Academy to engage in a compelling debate on the motion: “This house believes that freedom of expression is a utopia.” The session provided a dynamic platform for evaluating the ideals of free speech against the practical constraints imposed by societal, governmental, and familial influences.

Proponents of the motion contended that absolute freedom of expression is unattainable in reality. They argued that unrestricted speech could lead to threats such as sedition, religious intolerance, and risks to national security. Recent examples illustrate how the misuse of freedom of expression has facilitated the spread of misinformation, hate speech, and propaganda, which have incited social unrest. They further emphasized that not only the state but also international pressure, societal norms, and family structures limit an individual’s ability to express opinions freely. Thus, in practical terms, true freedom of expression remains an unachievable utopian ideal.

Opponents of the motion maintained that freedom of expression is a fundamental human right, enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and serves as a safeguard against authoritarianism. They argued that it enables citizens to voice their concerns, demand accountability, and drive social progress. They cited Bangladesh’s evolving cyber laws and ongoing social movements as concrete examples of how freedom of speech is exercised in reality. They also pointed to nations like Palestine and North Korea, where restrictions on expression have exacerbated human rights violations and social crises. Furthermore, they underscored that open dialogue fosters new ideas, technological advancements, and cultural enrichment, ultimately contributing to national development.

The debate highlighted the challenging task of balancing the protection of individual rights with the need for national stability. As Bangladesh continues to navigate issues of governance, civil liberties, and public discourse, the session underscored the complexities involved in preserving free speech while ensuring social cohesion and stability.

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