By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — Outgoing United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Opinion and Expression Irene Khan has warned that freedom of expression is facing increasing threats worldwide, citing the Philippines among countries where laws meant to address national security concerns are allegedly being used to suppress dissent and critical voices.
In her final report submitted to the UN Human Rights Council, Khan said governments have increasingly weaponized speech regulations, criminalized dissent, and restricted access to digital platforms, creating a challenging environment for journalists, activists, and human rights defenders.
Khan pointed to a Philippine case involving the use of anti-terrorism and terrorism financing laws against journalists and human rights advocates, describing it as an example of how such legislation can affect freedom of expression.
While she did not directly identify the individuals involved in the report, the case refers to Tacloban-based community journalist Frenchie Mae Cumpio and human rights advocate Marielle Domequil, who were convicted earlier this year on charges of financing terrorism and sentenced to prison terms ranging from 12 to 18 years.
The two remain detained while pursuing legal remedies and appealing their convictions.
Khan noted that legal proceedings in such cases can be prolonged, with defendants spending years in detention before final judgments are reached.
The UN official also revisited observations from her 2024 visit to the Philippines, during which she met detained journalists and activists.
According to Khan, the cases she reviewed highlighted concerns over red-tagging, a practice in which individuals or organizations are publicly accused of links to communist insurgent groups.
She said such allegations can have serious consequences on personal security, civic participation, and freedom of expression.
Beyond traditional restrictions, Khan warned that emerging technologies and artificial intelligence are creating new challenges for free expression globally.
She said governments and powerful digital platforms have increasingly used technology in ways that can manipulate public discourse, spread misinformation, and amplify hate speech.
“AI is running amok,” Khan said, warning that rapid technological innovation without sufficient safeguards could pose significant risks to democratic institutions and public trust.
The report cited instances where automated bot networks and AI-powered systems were allegedly used to disseminate disinformation and influence public opinion.
Khan urged governments to strengthen independent institutions, adopt human rights-based regulation of digital platforms, and support a diverse and independent media sector.
She also called for reducing the dominance of large technology companies and ensuring that regulatory agencies remain free from political influence.
“The diversity and pluralism of media is disappearing,” Khan said, stressing that a vibrant and independent press remains a cornerstone of democratic societies.
The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) welcomed Khan’s observations, particularly her concerns regarding the application of anti-terrorism laws against journalists and rights advocates.
The media organization renewed calls for a review of existing anti-terror legislation, the passage of a Freedom of Information law, stronger safeguards against red-tagging, and the decriminalization of libel.
NUJP also echoed concerns regarding the role of social media platforms in addressing online harassment and red-tagging, urging stronger accountability measures to protect journalists and human rights defenders.
Khan’s final report comes amid continuing global debates on balancing national security, technological innovation, and fundamental freedoms. Her recommendations underscore the need for governments, civil society, technology companies, and media organizations to work together in safeguarding freedom of expression while addressing evolving digital-age challenges.
ia/xf
