Towards an African theory of freedom of expression?

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Periodical article

Title:	Towards an African theory of freedom of expression?
Author:	Seleoane, Mandla
Year:	2001
Periodical:	Politeia: Journal for Political Science and Public Administration
Volume:	20
Issue:	3
Pages:	5-21
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Africa
Subjects:	one-party systems multiparty systems
Abstract:	This article examines the question of whether Africa needs a unique theory of freedom of expression. It examines African political documents drawn up in the course of the liberation struggle, as well as post-independence constitutions, arguing that these documents do not support the thesis that Africa subscribes to the need for an Africa-specific theory of freedom of expression. While recognizing that freedom of expression in Africa is generally in a sorry state, the article argues that this fact has more to do with governments in Africa, than with a need for a unique African theory on freedom of expression. The article argues that the thesis that different social conditions create the need for a different theory of expression is untenable. It further argues hat the enjoyment of human rights is in reality mediated by a variety of factors, including cultural factors. Precisely because of that, however, there is a need to accept the universality of human rights, so that the cultural factors that mediate the enjoyment of human rights can be jugded against some consistent standards. Bibliogr., note, sum.