Stories about Freedom of Speech from July, 2013
St. Kitts & Nevis: Protesting the Prime Minister
It's a twist rarely seen in Caribbean politics where party loyalties are fierce, but political tensions are high in St. Kitts and Nevis following the defection of two senior ministers. The move has left the government in a minority position, the Prime Minister has not summoned Parliament in more than six months, and people are taking to the streets in protest.
China's New Petition Website Crashes on First Day
China's new petition website crashed on the first day of its launch, sparking mockery and criticism from online users.
The Day Russia's Libraries Stood Still
On July 2, 2013 three of Russia's popular online libraries blocked user access to their websites and collections as a way to protest a new law aimed at combating internet piracy: "On their side is money, power and congenital brain failure. On ours -- technology, science and the aspirations of millions of people."
Electioneering Protests in South Korea
Spearheaded by students at major universities in South Korea, protests against the National Intelligence Service's electioneering have continued over two weeks. Several photos of last week's protest in Seoul and protest photos of Korean community in the United States have been shared online.
Grenada: Cleaning Up Social Media
The Electronic Crimes Bill…makes it an offence to send offensive messages electronically publicly, especially via social media such as Facebook and Twitter…be responsible for spoof and spam emails and to violate another person’s privacy. New legislation in Grenada tackles social media.
Roberto Beličanec, Macedonian Media Expert and Vocal Activist, Dies
Macedonian media expert, activist and blogger Roberto Beličanec died of heart attack on June 29 at the age of 41. Beličanec was one of the few remaining publicly vocal proponents of liberty and human rights in Macedonia, with a large social media following as a result of his courage to openly speak against the misuse of power, against corruption, censorship, and hate speech.
