Freedom of speech from a student perspective

Freedom of speech represents our basic right and is of key value for every individual, although we often face restrictions and obstacles arising from complex social and political controversies when delivering freedom of speech.

One of the biggest challenges to freedom of speech is the question of the limits of tolerance. While the right to free expression is understood, the question arises to what extent it should be fulfilled, especially in situations where the expression of views on some topic may threaten the rights of others or cause conflict. This balance between freedom of speech and the protection of fundamental rights becomes particularly threatened in the context of hate speech, the spread of false information or propaganda. Another key challenge is the impact of social networks on freedom of speech due to the spread of false information and leaving room for censorship and manipulation of content, be it video, audio or textual content.

In educational institutions, there is a constant debate between promoting open discussion and maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all students. Issues concerning personal views and personal identity can cause conflicts and problems among members of the educational community if they are emphasized in a way that is presented as superior to other people's commitments. By the way, the inclusion of political issues and the interference of politics within an educational institution is considered extremely incorrect and in this case not only the work of the institution is hindered, but basic human rights are also violated. With the given example, I would like to highlight the damage that can be caused to the academic community due to the conflict between two sides of different understandings.

Therefore, all citizens, including students, should have the opportunity to freely express their views and opinions as long as it does not endanger or offend another person and his/her integrity. If we, as students inside or outside the academic community, as its representatives, declare and support certain views, they should not be politically motivated or highlight any view as superior and better than opposing views, so as not to offend and hurt other people's rights. Politically motivated views are not only those that are explicitly stated, but primarily those whose very expression is politically motivated, but covert, i.e. implied. Educational institutions encourage us to form our opinions and to express them publicly in order to express ourselves and shape ourselves as individuals, but if those opinions harm another, then we have gone astray. You should always set boundaries, not endanger others and only the educational institution and its reputation during public presentation. Of course, at the same time, manipulation of the content, which is later interpreted differently from what was presented, must not be allowed. Such violation of other people's rights must not be tolerated, and every public performance should take place under controlled conditions.

Solving these challenges requires a complex approach that includes strengthening educational programs that promote critical thinking and developing tolerance towards different attitudes and opinions, as well as educating about the differences between freedom of speech and hate speech and prohibiting any political interference in the work of educational institutions. Educational institutions give us all the freedom to express ourselves, and it's up to us how we use that opportunity. If someone uses it in such a way as to manipulate their freedom of speech and misinterpret other people's freedom of speech, then a problem definitely arises, which is solved by setting clear boundaries for both parties, so that no one gets hurt and the others do not feel threatened to express their opinion. It is also important to work on strengthening institutional measures that protect freedom of speech, but at the same time ensure the protection of vulnerable groups from discrimination or harassment.

As a conclusion, I would highlight that freedom of speech remains a key issue that requires continuous attention and adaptation to ensure that it remains a fundamental value of a democratic society. Preservation of this right requires complex and clearly defined measures that would create clear boundaries so that conflicts do not occur. The mere absence of freedom of speech would prevent the development of critical thinking and observation from a wider angle, and everyone, especially students, should be encouraged to express their opinion, both outside and within the academic community without fear that their opinion will bother someone, because it is it is important that each of our voices is heard.

Teodora Šiklošić

A fourth-year student of English and German language at the Faculty of Philosophy in Novi Sad