Abstract
Freedom of expression is a fundamental human right enshrined in national laws and international conventions such as the European Convention on Human Rights. While the majority of states around the world profess a commitment to freedom of expression in their constitutions, only 14% of the world’s population lives in countries with a free press according to the US-based non-governmental organisation Freedom House. The Scandinavian countries have consistently topped up the press freedom rankings compiled by Freedom House and Reporters without Borders. Why are they the world leaders in that respect and what do their citizens think about freedom of expression? This very short book presents the results of a representative survey of Swedish citizens’ views on the limits of freedom of expression. It is divided into seven chapters, including introduction and conclusion. The topics discussed are as follows: what is freedom of expression, freedom of expression and (perceptions of) the media, Swedish citizens’ trust and confidence in media and citizens’ views on the limits of freedom of expression. The majority of respondents (63%) approve of measures that impose limits on freedom of expression for the purpose of protecting children and youth. Over half of respondents also approve of such measures in the interests of national security (52%) and to prevent violation of individuals’ privacy (51%). The study shows that ‘interest in politics and education are the most potent, and clearly significant, explanatory factors’ (p. 31). In the Conclusion, the authors remind us of the need to enhance popular understanding of ‘the meaning of freedom of expression’ because ‘the complexities of modern society mean that knowledgeable and committed citizens, equipped with well-honed critical faculties, are key to the survival of democracy’ (pp. 34–35). This short book serves as a useful reminder of the importance of freedom of expression for democracy and some of the current challenges experienced.