On The Freedom Of Expression

Based on Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil Rights and Political Rights (ICCPR), this paper explores the freedom of expression from the perspective of case law. Undoubtedly, it will be very helpful for us to give a thorough and clear definition of freedom of expression.The paper first analyzes the background when Article 19 was formulated, focusing on the original intention of the legislator. Then, starting with expounding Article 19, the paper follows relevant international legislation, including freedom of expression as embodied in ICCPR, The European Convention on Human Rights, The American Convention on Human Rights and The African Charter on Human and people's Rights, and carries out intensive analysis and exploration, the paper examines some practice by the Human Rights Committee and relevant cases by the European Court of Human Rights, American Court of Human Rights, as well as the decisions by some domestic courts. Especially, the paper keep a eye on new issues about freedom of expression arose from use of Internet. Finally, after illustrating the legislation and its execution, the paper makes some consideration and comments on China's current status of protecting the freedom of expression, and proposes some suggestions for improving China's legal system to further guarantee the freedom of expression.