A young egyptian student was jailed for blogging. Expressing his opinions something people in many countries take for granted. Including me. The lesson here is that Kareem Amer believes that his right to share his voice and opinion is worth more than not having the ability to share his voice. Many of us who blog, or produce multimedia content need to think carefully how we use this technology. But more importantly we need to realize we are apart of a growing international community that finds hope in tools we take advantage of everyday along with our freedoms.
In a cramped jail cell in Alexandria, Egypt, sits a soft-spoken 22- year-old student. Kareem Amer was sent to prison for over a month for allegedly “defaming the president of Egypt” and “highlighting inappropriate aspects that harm the reputation of Egypt.” Where did Amer commit these supposed felonies? On his weblog.
In 2007 we should find new ways to support bloggers like Kareem Amer. Those who are being imprisoned for simply sharing their opinions that we can share freely.
Source: International Herald Tribune
Originally posted on December 28, 2006 @ 1:39 am
I think there has to be a balance – while blogs now allow anyone on the planet with internet access to have a voice and publish instantly, I still feel that there are some opinions that should stay off blogs.
There is a lot going on about blogging ethics and employee blogging policies (for corporate blogs), and a good blogger should know how to stay on the right side of the law while keeping his or her readers entertained with controversial post content.
Just my two cents. Oh yeah its the end of 2006 ;) Happy new year!
Thanks for stopping by Kian, I agree its a happy balance between reality and well learning when to keep your mouth shut.
An ancient saying, “Tell the truth, but dont always been telling it” would be relevant here.
It’s nice to see a post such as this, unfortunately too few bloggers take an interest in the plight of their fellow bloggers in other countries. I’d recommend support of RSF (rsf.org) for anyone interesting in helping highlight the plight of our fellow bloggers in nations far less tolerant than our own.
Thanks for suggesting RSF. I will check that out.
D