Freedom of speech – and action
August 31 2006: SPEAKERS at a Karachi University seminar on promoting the “culture of discussion” were of the opinion that freedom of speech is a basic requisite of a democratic society. There is no disputing the fact that the democratic process can only work successfully if the people are allowed to express their points of view on a given issue and society is tolerant of diverse opinions and encourages a free debate. As the vice-chancellor of the university pointed out, democracy is not primarily a political process; it is inherently a social one too. One wishes that Pakistan had accepted these precepts much earlier and developed the culture of discussion and dialogue that is now being demanded.
Had this been the case the country would not have been subject to the oppression of authoritarian governments and the tyranny of a society that is socially undemocratic and intolerant. Pluralism has not been our wont and the universities themselves, which are organizing such seminars, were at one time clamping down on academic freedom in the name of discipline. Not forgotten are the days when professors were sent to prison for expressing opinions that challenged the establishment’s point of view. That the vice-chancellor now speaks of a change in culture is a welcome development indeed.
There is another factor that must be taken note of when one speaks of freedom of speech and expression. It is the need for developing supportive institutions to translate into tangible measures the concept of freedom of speech. There has been much talk of the freedom of the press being basic to democracy. But without a strong parliament, an independent judiciary and an accountable executive what can a free and lively press achieve? Similarly, academic freedom can inculcate a measure of tolerance and a willingness to listen to another point of view.
But it will not bring about any substantial change in social environment if the universities are not independent enough to resist pressures from the government and the political parties, which do not want any change in the status quo. Freedom can only make an impact if it permeates all levels and sections of society and becomes instrumental in bringing about a change.
Source: Dawn
Date:8/31/2006
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