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"The media should be free to report on election-related matters. They should also be exempted from liability for disseminating unlawful statements made directly by parties or candidates – whether in the context of live broadcasting or advertising – unless the statements have been ruled unlawful by a court or the statements constitute direct incitement to violence and the media outlet had an opportunity to prevent their dissemination. "
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International Mechanisms for Promoting Freedom of Expression: Joint Statement on the Media and Elections, p.2 para. 15Summaries
- Everyone has the right to freedom of expression, whether through public speeches or other means.
- The communication and circulation of ideas may not be restricted by any indirect means, such as abuse of government or private control over the media.
- The expression of an opinion or of a true statement may never constitute a valid claim of defamation.
- During the electoral process there should be sufficient media space to allow for open questioning and debate between political leaders and candidates.
- The media should not be prevented from expressing criticisms of the government.
- Media should not be held liable for the reproduction of untrue statements made by others.