Online Freedom of Expression in Sri Lanka
- - on 02/13/2015
The tension between the burgeoning technological capacities for bothexpression and repression online is a global phenomenon, compounded by the absence of a dedicated international legal framework that sets out obligations for states with regard to the protections of freedom of expression online. Within this context, Sri Lanka is particularly vulnerable: existing protections for offline freedom of expression are poor both in terms of substance and implementation. While the right to freedom of speech, expression, and publishing is protected under Article 14 (1)(a) of Sri Lanka’s constitution, it is subject to numerous restrictions, aimed at preserving national security, public order, racial and religious harmony, and morality. Moreover, its scope is much narrower than what is entailed by Sri Lanka’s obligations under international human rights law.
