Law Commons^™

Freedom of expression is a "cornerstone upon which the very existence of a democratic society rests" [citation omitted]. Its importance takes on a special meaning in the Western Hemisphere where numerous societies are building and developing democracies while coping with the legacy of authoritarianism, which exercised a profound institutional and cultural influence in the region. This article critically examines the Inter-American system of Human Rights, systematizing its jurisprudence while providing an analytical framework designed to fully realize this essential human right. Finally, this article proposes a series of measures to help achieve that important objective.