Punished for Speaking? Law, Rights and Dissent

The relationship between law, dissent and fundamental rights remains a defining question for any democratic society. Recent developments involving two human rights lawyers – Hadi Ali Chaththa and Imaan Mazari – have brought renewed attention to the boundaries of free expression, due process and the role of the state in responding to criticism.

This session will examine the broader legal and constitutional questions raised by such cases, including the protection of civil liberties, the interpretation of speech-related laws, and the challenges faced by those who advocate for marginalized communities. It will also reflect on the responsibilities of institutions and citizens in upholding justice and safeguarding the right to dissent.

About the Panelists:

• Matiullah Jan
  (Agahi Award Winner for Courage in Journalism, Media Law Expert)
• Azaz Syed
  (RTI Award Winner Journalist, Author, Trainer)
• Asad Ali Toor
  (Dutch Tulip Human Rights Award Winner Journalist)
• Mujahid Hussain
  (Author, Investigative Journalist, Rights Advocate – Moderator)

This session is free and open to all. Just visit the venue to attend it.

The Black Hole
Plot 5H, Street 100, G-11/3, Islamabad.
Click here for Google Maps Location