the information should be provided without a need to demonstrate a
direct interest in obtaining it, or personal harm, except where legitimate
restrictions apply.
252.
Thus, the right to freedom of expression and to receive information is
broadly conceived to include information of all types of knowledge
including in political terms as expressed in this Communication, and the
AC
HP
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Respondent State has an obligation to ensure that this information is
accessible without impediment. Thus, limiting the right of the Victims to
freedom of expression also limits their right to receive information.
253.
The above principle was expressed by the African Commission in the
Jawara Case, where it held that, the politically motivated harassment and
intimidation of journalists not only deprived them “of their rights to freely
express and disseminate their opinions, but also the public, of the right to
information.”110
254.
In the present Communication, the Victims were all journalists, some of
whom were allegedly reporting on the events of the demonstration and
taking photographs and were allegedly assaulted and molested for their
involvement in the protest to amend Article 76 of the Egyptian
Constitution. This restricts their right to freedom of expression and
opinion.
255.
It is not evident from the evidence presented in this Communication that
this restriction falls within the meaning provided by Principle II(2) of the
Declaration, that is, „provided by law‟, „serve a legitimate interest‟,
„necessary‟, and in a „democratic society.‟ Furthermore, the Respondent
110
n 3 above.para 65.
75
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