Category Archives: Freedom

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 30 Freedom of expression should come with social responsibility, especially in combating extremism, said Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Anifah Aman.

Referring to the recent uproar fuelled by the release of the anti-Islam video, Innocence of Muslims, he said such irresponsible action could not be defended under the pretext of human rights, freedom or liberty.

A line should be drawn when the prejudicial effect outweighs everything else. Malaysia has always maintained that freedom, including freedom of expression, comes with responsibility, Anifah (picture) said at the 67th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) general debate in New York today. His speech was made available here.

This years UNGA is themed Bringing about Adjustment or Settlement of International Disputes or Situations by Peaceful Means.

Condemning the irresponsible action of those who intentionally incited hatred, Anifah said Malaysia was equally saddened by the violent reaction which ensued.

He said using violence to express anger would only result in further divides, more damage and loss of innocent lives.

It is, therefore, important that we continue to practise moderation as we face the rising tide of extremism. Moderation is the best response to overcome extremism, he said.

On another matter, Anifah said Malaysia condemned the violence and senseless killings that continued in Syria, and hoped any further action to help the nation would be in the interest of the Syrian people.

He also called upon Israel to stop illegal settlement activities in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.

We are particularly concerned by the threats to invade or divide the site of Al-Aqsa Mosque, which would be a breach of Israels obligation as an occupying power, he said.

Link:
Anifah: Freedom of expression not licence for extremism

KABUL (Reuters) - Afghan journalists are claiming a small victory in their battle for press freedom after the government agreed to some softening of media restrictions, industry representatives said on Monday.

Journalists have been locked in a row with the government for months after authorities proposed a revision of the existing media law, which looked to significantly tighten Kabul's grip over the fledgling but lively Afghan press corps.

The legislation raised fresh concerns that authorities were trying to appeal to the more conservative side of society ahead of the pullout of most foreign troops by the end of 2014.

A frequent gripe though was that the changes would have forced reporters to "observe the principles of Islam", a vague catch-all stipulation which some journalists say the government uses to detain them.

The Ministry of Information and Culture agreed to five of 19 changes suggested by journalists. They include getting rid of special courts for alleged media violations and a clause that proposed restriction on foreign programming on radio and TV.

"Afghan journalists consider the new proposal of the media law a move in the right direction," said Abdul Mujeeb Khalvatgar, executive director of media advocacy group Nai.

"Taking in the considerations of the (media) community means the government believes in, trusts and recognizes our field."

President Hamid Karzai trumpets the existing 2009 law, which took years to pass, as one of his government's major achievements, though war and an atmosphere of impunity make Afghanistan one of the most dangerous places to be a journalist.

The new draft still presents the media with restrictions, including a heavy government presence on the High Media Council, a 15-member body which has enormous sway over ethics and legal procedures.

"This draft is significantly better than the last one, but the biggest question still remains, which is why there is a need for a new law in the first place," said Heather Barr, Afghanistan researcher for Human Rights Watch.

Originally posted here:
Afghan media claim small victory in fight for press freedom

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 30 (Bernama) -- Freedom of expression should come with social responsibility, especially in combating extremism, said Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Anifah Aman.

Referring to the recent uproar fuelled by the release of the anti-Islam video, 'Innocence of Muslims', he said, such irresponsible action could not be defended under the pretext of human rights, freedom or liverty.

"A line should be drawn when the prejudicial effect outweighs everything else. Malaysia has always maintained that freedom, including freedom of expression, comes with responsibility," he said at the 67th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) general debate in New York today.

His speech was made available here.

This year's UNGA is themed 'Bringing about Adjustment or Settlement of International Disputes or Situations by Peaceful Means'.

Condemning the irresponsible action of those who intentionally incited hatred, Anifah said Malaysia was equally saddened by the violent reaction which ensued.

He said using violence to express anger would only result in further divides, more damage and loss of innocent lives.

"It is, therefore, important that we continue to practise moderation as we face the rising tide of extremism. Moderation is the best response to overcome extremism," he said.

On another matter, Anifah said Malaysia condemned the violence and senseless killings that continued in Syria, and hoped any further action to help the nation would be in the interest of the Syrian people.

He also called upon Israel to stop illegal settlement activities in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.

Continue reading here:
Freedom of expression comes with social responsibility - Anifah

SOUTHLAKE, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Sabre Holdings, a global travel technology company, today launched Passport to Freedom, its comprehensive initiative seeking to unite the travel and tourism industry in the fight against human trafficking. Announced by Sabre Holdings Chairman and CEO Sam Gilliland, actress and advocate Jada Pinkett Smith, U.S. Travel Association President and CEO Roger Dow, and Tekla Roberts, a human trafficking survivor and program advocate, the initiative aims to raise awareness about human trafficking issues; advocate for legislative change; and provide opportunities for leaders in government, travel and non-profit organizations to collaborate on an issue affecting up to 27 million people globally.

Sabre has a presence with all segments of the travel sector from agents and airlines to tour services and travelers, and everything in between, putting us in a unique position to act as a driving force in raising awareness for this cause, said Gilliland. Human trafficking impacts countries around the world, including every major city in the United States. Passport to Freedom is part of our effort to rally the travel and tourism industry to not only end these crimes, but to also help those who are affected rebuild their lives.

Passport to Freedom addresses these issues by focusing on three primary objectives: to educate, collaborate and advocate. The program will also include a long-term scholarship and employment program providing job training to human trafficking survivors for careers in the travel and tourism industry.

Additional elements include:

U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Ray LaHood has launched an initiative to address the role of transportation in human trafficking. Under his direction, the Departmentis training 55,000 DOT employees in the U.S. and abroad. The Department is also working with the transportation industry to raise awareness about the issue.

We are working with all our modes of transportation to help stop the flow of human trafficking, but we cant do it alone, said Secretary LaHood. Raising awareness about human trafficking can save lives, if everyone gets involved. Public/private initiatives like the one Sabre is launching can make a real difference in ending this terrible crime.

Secretary LaHood sent a video message of support to attendees of a workshop Sabre hosted on Thursday to discuss and develop solutions to human trafficking.

Human trafficking is a $32 billion trade, making it one of the most lucrative, widespread and fastest-growing global crimes. The travel and tourism industry is often an unwilling and unknowing participant in these crimes as millions are trafficked within and across domestic and international borders and kept in hotels or other public housing for commercial sex or forced labor each year.

Actress and advocate Jada Pinkett Smith, who has testified before Congress appealing for federal funding to assist human trafficking victims, also took part in several events Sabre hosted on Thursday.

View original post here:
Sabre Establishes “Passport to Freedom” as Part of Commitment to Fight Human Trafficking Worldwide

September 28, 2012

http://www.malaysiakini.com (09-27-12)

Malaysia has fallen eight places in the Washington-based think tank Freedom Houses latest Freedom on the Net report, which measures Internet freedom in 47 countries.

This places Malaysia on the 23rd spot, in the same league as Libya and Jordon, and maintains its partly free label in the think tanks Freedom on the Net Status.

The ranking employed a demerit system (i.e. Zero being no obstacles to Internet freedom) to construct the rankings. This year, Malaysia picked up an additional two point and is now 43 of 100.

In the region, Malaysia (23rd) ranks behind the Philippines (7th place) and Indonesia (21st) but is ahead of Thailand (35th), Vietnam (40th) and Burma (41st).

One of the chief Freedom House complaints is the amendments to Section 114A of the Evidence Act 1950 which make intermediaries liable for content posted by anonymous users.

(This raises) concerns that it would damper free expression online and open the doors to selective, politically motivated prosecutions, read the report. Freedom House noted that the amendments were hurriedly rushed through passage and now allowed the presumption of guilt, shifting the burden of proof to the accused.

Evolving tactics of harassment

The report said although there were fewer defamation cases against bloggers and several earlier prosecutions had been discontinued, defamation cases against bloggers involving disproportionate request for damages threatened to chill online expression.

Follow this link:
Freedom on the NET Status: Malaysia maintains ‘”Partly Free” status

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Freedoms Defense Fund, an independent political organization dedicated to principles of limited government, today released an ad in support of Rep. Todd Akins bid to unseat Senator Clare McCaskill. The ad, entitled Lets Do the Math, calls out Claire McCaskill for her uniform support of Barack Obamas disastrous policies. It is part of a $250,000 independent expenditure aimed at making Todd Akin the next Missouri Senator.

Claire McCaskill votes with Barack Obama 98 percent of the time, the ad notes. McCaskill is a reliable ally in the liberal assault on free-market capitalism and traditional values.

The ad is part of a continuing commitment on the part of Freedoms Defense Fund to support candidates who have been abandoned by the mainstream. The National Republican Senatorial Committee has refused to fund Akins bid, even though polls demonstrate the race to be very winnable.

On the issues, Todd Akin is the right leader for Missouri, said Michael Centanni, Chairman of Freedoms Defense Fund. We know Missouri voters reject Barack Obama and Sen. McCaskills extreme vision for America, and we want to make sure they are informed.

To view the ad, visit http://www.freedomsdefensefund.com.

About Freedoms Defense Fund

Freedoms Defense Fund is a political action committee dedicated to the protection of liberty from big government advocates of either party. Freedoms Defense Fund stands with conservative, pro-freedom candidates against the radical left and their elitist allies in the mainstream media.

Read the rest here:
Today: Freedom’s Defense Fund Releases Ad in Support of Todd Akin

SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Freedom Meditech, Inc., developer of non-invasive ophthalmic products for the detection of disease and management of patient health, today announced it has secured a $2 million line of credit from Silicon Valley Bank (SVB). The funds will be used to ramp up manufacturing and distribution of the company's ClearPath DS-120 Lens Fluorescence Biomicroscope, currently under regulatory review in the U.S. and European Union.

SVBs due diligence on our ClearPath DS-120 showed a strong mix of proven technology, market opportunity and just how far we have come in reducing manufacturing, regulatory and marketing risk for the product, said Craig Misrach, Chairman and CEO of Freedom Meditech. The financing provided by SVB is a springboard to launch this new and exciting product in the global healthcare marketplace.

Terms of the credit facility include an initial disbursement with additional funds available upon attaining certain milestones. The transaction is in anticipation of a Series B financing close by the company.

The company plans to launch the ClearPath in international markets with an initial focus on countries that accept the CE Mark and CSA Certification Mark. The CE Mark is required to sell in the 27 countries that comprise the EU and is a gateway to other non-regulated markets. CSA certification is required to sell in Canada and is an entre to certain Latin American markets. The product is also under U.S. Food and Drug Administration 510(k) review.

The ClearPath DS-120 incorporates the use of proprietary biophotonic spectroscopy to detect autofluorescence of the crystalline lens of the eye. The ClearPath non-invasively scans blue light into the lens of the eye in less than six (6) seconds and produces a result immediately at the point of care. The test is painless, requires no special preparation such as fasting, and produces no bio-hazardous waste or disposal cost. This information, along with other data collected in a routine health examination, can provide clinicians with a more robust wellness program designed to identify the potential risk of chronic systemic disease and the need to institute appropriate patient management plans.

About Freedom Meditech Freedom Meditech, Inc. is a medical device company focused on the commercialization of novel ophthalmic technologies for the detection of disease and management of patient health. The company maintains research and development operations throughout California and Ohio with supporting corporate and engineering activities in San Diego, CA. For more information, visit http://www.freedom-meditech.com.

AboutSilicon Valley BankSilicon Valley Bankis the premier bank for technology, life science, cleantech, venture capital, private equity and premium wine businesses. SVB provides industry knowledge and connections, financing, treasury management, corporate investment and international banking services to its clients worldwide through 27 U.S. offices and seven international operations. (SIVB)www.svb.com. Silicon Valley Bankis theCaliforniabank subsidiary and the commercial banking operation ofSVB Financial Group. Banking services are provided bySilicon Valley Bank, a member of theFDICand theFederal Reserve System. SVB Financial Groupis also a member of theFederal Reserve System.

The ClearPath DS-120 is an investigational device and is limited by federal (U.S.) law to investigational use.

ClearPath DS-120 Lens Fluorescence Biomicroscope is a trademark owned by Freedom Meditech, Inc.

More here:
Freedom Meditech Secures $2 Million in Funding from Silicon Valley Bank

LAKEVILLE, Conn.Last year, Freedom Autosports Derek Whitis and Tom Long won the ST race at Lime Rock Park. This year, theyll be happy just to finish in the top six. Thats where the duo will have to place in order to clinch their first GRAND-AM Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge championship.

#25 Freedom Autosport Mazda MX-5: Tom Long, Derek Whitis

Photo by: Luis Betancourt

Mazda Raceway was a great result and the team really deserved it. They worked amazingly hard all weekend, says Whitis, who took the ST pole at Lime Rock in 2011. Lime Rock Park is the type of track where anyone could win, so we'll do our best for Mazda, the team, and most importantly, all the veterans and troops who protect our freedom.

For Freedom Autosport, doing our best means approaching the season finale with the same strategy and commitment that has helped the team be a consistent top-ten finisher all season. We can't stress about the points lead. We simply have to do the best job we can and focus on getting Freedom Autosport and Mazda another top race result, says Long.

For Rhett ODoski and Andrew Carbonell in the No. 26 Freedom Autosport Mazda MX-5, the Lime Rock race will be about redemption. ODoski qualified third there last year and Carbonell was battling for the race lead when a collision sent the Mazda off-track, where it flipped six times.

We finished second at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, and now were looking for another top finish to end the season on a high note, says ODoski. Weve proven that the MX-5 is a competitive car at Lime Rock, and were anxious to get a result that matches our potential at that track.

There is certainly a lot of potential for co-drivers Tyler Cooke and Dillon Machavern in the No. 8 Freedom Autosport Mazda MX-5. Both drivers are just 18 years old, but Cooke already has a wealth of GRAND-AM experience as a member of Freedom Autosport. He has also stood atop the Lime Rock podium in Skip Barber competition. Machavern is making his series debut at Lime Rock, bringing with him a successful track record in Spec Miata racing.

Source: Freedom Autosport

Visit link:
Freedom Autosport’s Whitis and Long hope to clinch ST championship at Lime Rock

Freedom of expression in the West is hokum, I say. It's hypocrisy dressed up as high virtue. Worse still, it is now used as a missile aimed mainly at Muslims.

Freedoms are sacred and easily snatched by the powerful and it is a blessing to live in a country where prime ministers and princes are berated with impunity. Authoritarian states, like Saudi Arabia and China, remain unenlightened because they suppress the human voice. But I also believe that freedom without responsibility amounts to anarchy.

As do those European nations which have collectively agreed that Holocaust denial is an offence, that minorities should be protected from hate speech and that individuals have the right to privacy. Quite a list of limitations, eh? Libertarians proclaiming freedom of expression as an absolute, non-negotiable Western value say nothing on those restrictions.

If that manifesto was real, Kate Middleton would have to put up and shut up about those pictures, David Irving, the anti-Semitic historian, would be allowed to publish his revolting spiel and not be imprisoned, as he was in 2006 in Austria, and we would have no libel or defamation laws.

None of that is permitted, because in good societies there have to be curbs on what can be said, published or broadcast and sometimes freedom has to give way.

With Muslims, there is no restraint, or even fairness. Charlie Hebdo, the satirical magazine in France which printed demeaning cartoons of Prophet Mohamed, wanted trouble, so its editor could appear a really big man.

And because many Muslims are instantly and irrationally aroused to extreme frenzy, he expected it all to go off and his magazine to make money and martyrs.

Well, it didn't happen. French Muslims were banned from demonstrating, denied that democratic right. The anti-Islam internet film made by some dodgy Americans (we think) got the fire and fury it wanted. Throngs came out, people died, for no good reason, on either side.

Muslims need to calm down, grow up, learn to debate and become more self-aware. Western liberals who feel they have a duty to incite Muslims need self-awareness too and a bit of honesty. They don't provoke Jews, Hindus, or Christians to test their liberalism.

We have recently had a lot of Salman Rushdie. A memoir, hagiographic TV programme, a film of Midnight's Children, luvvie tributes have affirmed his eminence.

Here is the original post:
Freedom of speech an ideal to be revered but restrained

Share

ARE THE DAYS OF online freedom numbered? Screen grab from YouTube (TechfluffTV)

WASHINGTON, USA - Online freedom has suffered setbacks in many countries but also some gains amid the Arab Spring uprisings and political upheaval in parts of the world, a new study showed.

The report by the research group Freedom House found that 20 countries "experienced a negative trajectory since January 2011" as authorities used newer, more sophisticated controls to quell dissent on the Internet.

"The findings clearly show that threats to Internet freedom are becoming more diverse," said Sanja Kelly, project director at Freedom House and co-author of the report released Monday covering the period from January 2011 to May 2012.

"As authoritarian rulers see that blocked websites and high-profile arrests draw local and international condemnation, they are turning to murkier but no less dangerous methods for controlling online conversations."

The study found that Estonia had the highest level of online freedom among the 47 countries examined, while the United States ranked second.

Iran, Cuba and China received the lowest scores and 10 other countries received a ranking of "not free" Belarus, Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, Ethiopia, Bahrain and Syria.

The worst declines, according to the report, were in Bahrain, Egypt and Jordan, reflecting "intensified censorship, arrests and violence against bloggers."

It said online freedom was also hurt in Mexico "in the context of increasing threats of violence from organized crime," and in Ethiopia, "possibly reflecting a government effort to establish more sophisticated controls before allowing access to expand."

Read the rest here:
'Online freedom sees setbacks'