May 3, 2025: Global Peace Summit (GPS) hosted a webinar focused on the challenges and responses related to free speech in the modern world, featuring a panel of experts who discussed various aspects of censorship and its implications. Host and co-founder of GPS Syed Muaz opened the session by highlighting the detrimental effects of government censorship on democratic processes and the importance of protecting online expression. The panel included Dr. Kareem Hussain, Professor Alex Lawson, Mr. Shozab Majeed, and Ms. Esra M. Saleh, who provided diverse perspectives on the topic. Participants were encouraged to engage actively through polls and questions, fostering an interactive environment aimed at exploring the complexities of free expression.
The discussion addressed the restrictions on free speech within academic institutions, particularly in the context of political pressures. Prof. Lawson emphasized that universities should be arenas for rigorous debate rather than safe spaces for unchallenged opinions, arguing that state interventions can have chilling effects on free speech. Dr. Hussain added that these restrictions could deter international students from the Global South, negatively impacting local economies and cultural exchange. He warned that limiting access to education could foster injustice and nationalism, highlighting the broader implications of censorship on individual rights and societal progress.
The panel also examined the intersection of free speech and misinformation, with Mr. Shah presenting poll findings indicating a growing perception of increasing restrictions on speech. Mr. Majeed discussed the importance of understanding one’s rights and the legal frameworks governing expression, while Mrs. Saleh, a native Gazan, highlighted the challenges faced by Palestinians in expressing their narratives, particularly in the face of social media censorship. The conversation underscored the need for advocacy and the importance of maintaining open discourse, especially in politically charged environments where dissent is often suppressed.
The dialogue concluded with a focus on the role of disinformation in shaping public perception and the responsibilities of individuals, particularly students, in critically analyzing information. Shozab Majeed urged participants to engage in constructive dialogue and ask tough questions respectfully, while Esra Saleh called for a reassessment of political agendas that hinder humanitarian efforts. The panelists collectively emphasized the necessity of self-advocacy and the importance of fostering an environment where diverse perspectives can be expressed without fear of retribution, setting the stage for continued discussions on free speech in future events.
