Print Media Enjoys Greater Credibility

Freedom of speech, a free press and right to information constitute fundamental characteristics of democracy in modern time. In a liberal democracy, free speech has been touted as an inalienable part of political and social life. However, free speech and press freedom alone does not strengthen democracy and serve the public. Experiences and examples show that lies, rumours and misinformation are spread and passed to a wider audience by exploiting the freedom of the press. At a time when social networking sites have become ubiquitous, the proliferation of misinformation, disinformation and hate speech has become routine, especially during times of political events such as elections and party conventions.