THE PRACTICE OF FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION IN FRANCE: IMPLICATIONS FOR MUSLIM MINORITY

Abstract

This paper aimed to explore the ways freedom of expression, as human rights have been interpreted and practiced by people. The case of France; post-9/11 has been focused on the study. According to the exploratory nature of the research, qualitative research method was used. Data suggests that the rights have been misused by the elites and has caused harm to those who practiced it, if they were not powerful. It has also been used to justify hate speech and waged political war many times. The incidents of blasphemy in the name of freedom of expression have resulted in the prosecution or murder of the ones practicing it. In October 2020, President of France attempted to defend a similar act and as a result; the religious sentiments of Muslims were offended. The case study of France is under focus while analyzing, how a secular nation has failed to protect the rights of Muslim minority and has disrespected their faith. The findings of the research indicate that the right needs to be practiced with responsibility as the legal system has failed to provide protection in the past and it will continue to happen, if necessary, amendments are not made in the Article 19 of Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Key Words: Freedom of expression, hate speech, inter-faith conflict, privilege of speech, minorities, blasphemy, religious sentiments, Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).