Project Elicit - Freedom of Expression

 Freedom of Expression: Can We Cross the Line?

"The right to freedom of expression is not absolute, it carries responsibilities. Speech that harms other—be it through incitement, defamation, or breach of privacy—must be scrutinized under the lens of ethics and law." – John Stuart Mill

In an era where social media dominates the way we communicate, the question arises, Can we express our thoughts without any limits, even if they are harmful? As the President of Leo Club of University of Colombo, I, Leo Damith Kaushalya, deeply reflect on this issue in light of our research project, The Elicit.

Our project, rooted in the fundamental principle of Freedom of Expression, aims to uncover hidden stories, give voice to the unheard, and emphasize the significance of this right in modern society. However, in our pursuit of free speech, do we sometimes cross the line?

Freedom vs. Harm: Where Do We Draw the Line?

Social media has become a double-edged sword. On one hand, it empowers individuals to voice their opinions, challenge authorities, and demand justice. On the other, it has also become a breeding ground for hate speech, cyberbullying, and privacy violations. Some argue that absolute freedom of speech is necessary for a functioning democracy. But does this mean we have the right to abuse others, expose their sensitive data, or inflict psychological harm under the guise of free expression?

Freedom of expression is not a license to harm. When individuals use social media to spread misinformation, harass others, or disclose private details with malicious intent, they are not exercising a right they are committing an ethical and legal violation. No fundamental right exists in isolation ,every freedom comes with responsibilities.

The Role of Ethics and Law

Many countries recognize that free speech must have reasonable restrictions. International human rights frameworks, including Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), acknowledge that free expression can be limited to protect the rights and reputations of others, ensure national security, and maintain public order.

This does not mean that governments or institutions should suppress dissent or silence criticism. It means that while individuals can express their views, they must do so with respect, responsibility, and regard for the rights of others. A world without limits on speech is not a utopia; it is chaos.

As we move forward with The Elicit, let us approach this topic with intellectual honesty and ethical responsibility. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the project team for their dedication to unveiling the complexities of Freedom of Expression. Your work is not just research, it is a step toward a more just, informed, and balanced discourse in society.

Let’s continue to champion free speech—not as an excuse for harm, but as a tool for truth, empowerment, and positive change.

Leo Damith Kaushalya

President

Leo Club of the University of Colombo