sõnavabadusele

Sõnavabadus is the Estonian term for freedom of speech. It is a fundamental human right recognized in international law and protected by the Estonian constitution. This right allows individuals to express their opinions, ideas, and information freely without censorship or fear of reprisal from the government or other authorities.

The principle of freedom of speech encompasses various forms of expression, including spoken words, written texts, artistic creations, and symbolic actions. It is considered essential for the functioning of a democratic society, enabling public discourse, the exchange of diverse perspectives, and holding power accountable.

While broadly protected, freedom of speech is not absolute. Most legal systems, including Estonia's, recognize certain limitations to prevent harm to others or to uphold public order. These limitations typically include prohibitions against defamation, incitement to violence, hate speech, and the disclosure of state secrets. The balancing of freedom of expression with these legitimate restrictions is a continuous process in legal and societal discussions.

In Estonia, the right to freedom of speech is enshrined in Article 45 of the Constitution. This article states that everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience, religion, and opinion, and the right to express them freely. The constitutional protection aims to ensure that individuals can participate actively in public life and contribute to the development of society without undue interference.