General Comment No. 12

General Comment No. 12, issued by the UN's Human Rights Committee, emphasizes the importance of the right to express oneself, including the right to seek, receive, and share information. It clarifies that governments must protect free speech and ensure access to information, especially when it affects individuals’ ability to participate fully in society and make informed choices. This includes respecting diversity of opinions and preventing censorship. The comment underscores that freedom of expression is essential for human dignity and democracy, and states have a duty to foster an environment where everyone can communicate openly and without fear of repression.