10 signatures reached
To: Foreign Minister Philip Hammond
Save Raif Badawi
Revoke the punishment and sentence handed out to Raif Badawi and introduce freedom of speech in Saudi Arabia.
Why is this important?
Freedom of speech and freedom of expression are integral to global peace and security. We don't have to agree with what is being said, but we have to respect the persons rights to say it without fear.
States which have laws like this which restrict free speech are wont to abuse them - to shut down dissent, to punish difference of opinion, and to insulate the government from all criticism. That is why the right to free speech, including the right to offend, is protected in international law. Even Raif's lawyer has been jailed. His crimes? 'Harming the reputation of the state by communicating with international organizations' and 'preparing, storing and sending information that harms public order'.
Without respect for the right to freedom of expression, we are vulnerable to the worst oppression states can muster.
States which have laws like this which restrict free speech are wont to abuse them - to shut down dissent, to punish difference of opinion, and to insulate the government from all criticism. That is why the right to free speech, including the right to offend, is protected in international law. Even Raif's lawyer has been jailed. His crimes? 'Harming the reputation of the state by communicating with international organizations' and 'preparing, storing and sending information that harms public order'.
Without respect for the right to freedom of expression, we are vulnerable to the worst oppression states can muster.
