ARTICLE 19 Brazil has launched (2nd November 2014) a new website, “Violations of Freedom of Expression” (www.artigo19.org/violacoes). The website brings together a range of information on violations against the freedom of expression of human rights defenders and journalists from all over Brazil. The launch coincided with the first International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists.
The website contains a map with the locations and details of all cases of violations recorded by the ARTICLE 19 Brazil team. Website visitors can produce a graphic based on the data provided – profile of the victim and the perpetrator of the crime, the state where the crime was committed, gender, type of violation, and motivation, among others.
It also provides analysis on impunity for crimes against freedom of expression using reports produced by ARTICLE 19 Brazil on violations of journalists and human rights defenders for 2012 and 2013.
“The initiative aims to draw attention to the systematic occurrence of violations to freedom of expression of journalists and human rights defenders, particularly when they criticise or complain about public officials or promote the mobilisation of movements or communities in the struggle for rights,” says Thiago Firbida, officer for the Protection of Freedom of Expression program of ARTICLE 19 Brazil.
The website also contains guides, videos and tips on safety and security in different contexts, such as when covering politics, lawsuits and protests. It highlights legislation and official mechanisms at national and international level, showing that the state has a duty to act for the protection of freedom of expression.
Seeking to strengthen protection mechanisms for journalists and human rights defenders in vulnerable situations, the website provides a secure place to make complaints anonymously. In addition there is a forum, which is also safe and anonymous, and serves as a space for the establishment of a network of civil society organizations working in the area.
Finally, the website highlights news and activities related to the protection of freedom of expression.
Visit the site: http://artigo19.org/violacoes