about fx institute
The Freedom of Expression Institute (FXI) was established in 1994 to protect and foster the right to freedom of expression and to oppose censorship. Its vision is a society where everyone enjoys freedom of expression and the right to access and disseminate information.

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Activities of the fxi
A significant part of the FXI’s work cannot be plotted on a year calendar. This work, largely located in the FXI’s Law Clinic, encompasses: Walk-in and phone-in legal advice, Policy and legislative submissions, Legal support, Research, Public dialogues and so much more.
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Cases & Judgements
The FXI exists as a basket of rights covering freedom of speech; access to information; media freedom; freedom of assembly; the right to protest; academic freedom and; artistic freedom. South African citizens have enjoyed a liberal regime of these rights for 3 years now since the new Constitution.
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why we exist

Since inception, FXI has contributed extensively to advancing the right to freedom of expression; access to information and the right to protest.

The FXI is a voluntary, non-governmental organization (NPO registration number: 034887), which is managed by an Executive Committee, which meets at least four times annually.

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Our Objectives
The FXI’s primary objectives are to fight for and defend freedom of expression; to oppose censorship; to fight for the right of equal access to information and knowledge; and to promote access to media and a free press. In taking on this broad public interest mandate, the FXI campaigns against any limitations imposed on these freedoms by the state, private sector or civil society through public pronouncements and litigation.
fredom of expression
Freedom of expression exists as a basket of rights covering freedom of speech; access to information; media freedom; freedom of assembly; the right to protest; academic freedom and; artistic freedom. South African citizens have enjoyed a liberal regime of these rights for 16 years now since the new Constitution.

01.

THE julius MALEMA MATTER

The Hate Speech Conundrum

By Jane Duncan

Date posted: 19 April 2010


OPEN CASE

02.

HATE SPEECH CASE

Masuku & Ano v SAHRC (1062/2017) [2018] ZASCA 180
04 December 2018

OPEN CASE

03.

marikana

FXI Welcomes appointment of Presidential Commission of Inquiry into Marikana Massacre

24 August 2012

OPEN CASE

the work we do

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Freedom of expression exists as a basket of rights covering freedom of speech; access to information; media freedom; freedom of assembly; the right to protest; academic freedom and; artistic freedom. South African citizens have enjoyed a liberal regime of these rights for 16 years now since the new Constitution.

The country enjoys a free and vibrant media sector; progressive legislation to access information; an active citizenry sensitive to censorship; a vocal tradition of public protest; highly active open government processes; and government officials who are not shielded from critical scrutiny and embarrassment.

Freedom of expression as a comprehensive entitlement of citizenship has indeed coursed through and shaped the culture of this country as it hurtled away from apartheid oppression to democratic freedom. The openness of South African society is without question, and it provides a healthy environment to facilitate advocacy that will advance these rights, and also comfortable vigilance to mobilise public support to protect these rights where it may be under threat.

In both respects, i.e. advancing and protecting these rights, it is an on-going and critical public interest responsibility as in some instances aspects of freedom of expression have come under threat; while constant opportunities also arise to advance this right.

As a basket of rights, it encompasses a broad scope of the legislative and policy environment and numerous laws, government policies and court cases need to be considered.

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