Communication and Dissent: Competing Voices in a Post-Truth World

Abstract

This article raises questions on the political and legal side of lies and truths: (1) is there a human right to (know) the truth? (2) Is there a human right to (disseminate) lies? They are important issues today as the governments in too many parts of the world aim to suppress political voices by ostracizing and outlawing disinformation in communications and the media. So far this happens in the context of countering COVID-19 conspiracies and anti-vax movements, but generally designed to tackle any socially important information. On the other hand, the world indeed stands bewildered at the current outbursts of false news and the governments search for ways and means to diminish their social harm. The article provides a viewpoint for what the international law says on lies and truths in global affairs.

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2022-10-01
2024-03-28
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Keyword(s): disinformation; freedom of information; human rights; international regulation; propaganda; Russia

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