This policy outlines the government’s approach to managing speech, media, and behavior within society. While the state values free expression, this policy is designed to ensure speech and media do not disrupt public order, spread harmful misinformation, or compromise national security. Through a balanced approach of regulation, accountability, and support, the policy emphasizes the need for responsible speech while providing safeguards for societal stability and well-being.
1. Speech Accountability
Citizens are encouraged to express their views but must do so responsibly. Speech that incites violence, disorder, or promotes harmful behavior is prohibited. The state will ensure that freedom of speech does not infringe on the rights and safety of others.
- Implementation: Public officials and domestic security forces will monitor speech to ensure it aligns with responsible civic behavior. Citizens who violate these standards may face warnings, penalties, or legal actions.
2. Media and Entertainment Regulation
All media, entertainment, and artistic works must adhere to state guidelines for content and age-appropriateness. Pornography is strictly banned, and mature content must be rated and restricted accordingly. Artistic expression is allowed but must remain within boundaries of decency and social responsibility.
- Implementation: The government will enforce a standardized media rating system across all platforms, including TV, film, video games, and music. Oversight bodies will ensure compliance with content guidelines, and violations will result in sanctions.
3. Profanity Regulation
While profanity is tolerated, excessive use is discouraged. Media and public speech should strike a balance, ensuring that language does not descend into unnecessary vulgarity.
- Implementation: Media regulators will monitor public broadcasts and entertainment for excessive profanity and enforce moderation. Public figures are expected to lead by example.
4. Prohibition of Calls for Violence and Disorder
Direct incitement of violence, terrorism, or social disorder is strictly prohibited. The government will act swiftly to prevent any speech or action that threatens public safety.
- Implementation: Law enforcement agencies and domestic security will monitor public speech, media, and social platforms for such violations. Perpetrators will face severe penalties, including arrest and prosecution.
5. Censorship of Claims Without Evidence
Speech or claims made without credible evidence will be subject to censorship, particularly when these claims spread misinformation or discredit public institutions without justification.
- Implementation: Media outlets and individuals disseminating unfounded claims will receive warnings, and their content may be censored or removed. NICS will track the spread of misinformation for rapid intervention.
6. Government Criticism and Protection
While citizens may voice criticisms of government policies, these criticisms must be based on facts and presented responsibly. Baseless attacks or attempts to undermine the government’s integrity will not be tolerated.
- Implementation: Government officials and NICS will monitor public discourse. Content deemed as baseless attacks on government will be subject to censorship, with consequences for those who persist.
7. Online and Social Media Platform Oversight
Social media platforms must ensure that content shared on their networks adheres to state speech guidelines. Harmful or illegal content must be removed swiftly to prevent the spread of misinformation or violence.
- Implementation: Online platforms will be held responsible for content monitoring, with oversight from government agencies. Non-compliance will result in fines, restrictions, or loss of operational licenses.
8. Artistic and Educational Speech
Artistic expression, satire, and educational content are allowed, provided they remain within the boundaries of decency and factual accuracy. This includes sensitive topics like sex education, which must be handled responsibly.
- Implementation: Regulatory bodies will oversee the development of educational and artistic content, ensuring it remains respectful and informative without promoting harmful ideologies.
9. Media Responsibility
Media outlets must maintain a high standard of factual reporting, avoiding sensationalism or biased coverage. Misinformation or irresponsible reporting that distorts the truth is strictly prohibited.
- Implementation: Government agencies will audit media publications and broadcasts for accuracy and fairness. Repeated offenses will lead to penalties, including suspensions or revocation of media licenses.
10. Public Preaching and Disturbances
Public preaching and other forms of disruptive speech in public spaces are restricted to avoid disturbing the peace. Public gatherings for proselytizing must adhere to local ordinances, and unsolicited preaching is banned.
- Implementation: Domestic security forces will monitor public spaces for unauthorized preaching. Individuals or groups who disrupt public order will face fines or removal from the premises.
11. Street Performers Regulation
Street performers must obtain a license or permit to operate in public spaces. Performances must not cause major disruptions to pedestrian flow, traffic, or public order. Domestic security reserves the right to remove performers deemed disruptive.
- Implementation: Performers will be vetted for quality and compliance before receiving permits. Continuous monitoring will ensure performances do not interfere with public peace or obstruct paths.
12. Selective Limitation of Speech and Information Flow
The government reserves the right to limit speech or the flow of information in cases where it could disrupt national security, public order, or societal stability. This is implemented judiciously to prevent abuse of power.
- Implementation: Government agencies will monitor speech and media channels, intervening when content risks causing public disorder. Oversight committees will review interventions to ensure they are proportionate and justified.
13. Media Information Flow Control
The government has the right to limit or censor media outlets if their broadcasts or publications threaten public safety, spread harmful misinformation, or incite panic. Compliance with restrictions is mandatory for all media entities.
- Implementation: Government officials will review media content before and after publication, with authority to enforce censorship where necessary. Media outlets found in violation will face penalties, including shutdowns.
14. Website Control and Seizure
Websites found hosting illegal or harmful content, including misinformation, extremism, or disruptive speech, will be subject to takedowns or government seizure. Online activities will be regulated to ensure societal stability.
- Implementation: NICS will track websites hosting non-compliant content, with government intervention when necessary. Domains may be seized, and administrators prosecuted for violations.
15. Control of Print and Digital Media
The government will regulate and restrict print and digital media, including video games, films, music, and books, that promote obscenity, harmful ideologies, or misinformation. Content violators will face censorship or removal from circulation.
- Implementation: Print and digital media will be reviewed by regulators for adherence to state guidelines. Non-compliant content will be censored, and creators may face penalties.
16. Mental Health Review for Harmful or Obsessive Behavior
Individuals exhibiting harmful, obsessive, antisocial, or extreme behaviors may be referred for a mental health review. This applies to both public and online behavior, ensuring the safety of the individual and society.
- Implementation: Domestic security forces and NICS will monitor individuals for red flags in behavior, issuing referrals for mental health evaluations when necessary.
Conclusion:
The National Speech and Expression Policy serves as a foundational guide for maintaining responsible speech and media practices while preserving societal harmony and national security. By promoting accountability and regulating harmful behaviors, the government aims to create a balanced society where expression is free but not at the expense of public order and safety.