The need to communicate is as inherent to human beings as physiological needs like eating or drinking. Since the dawn of humanity, we have devised strategies to express our thoughts—first through sounds and later through writing.

Diverse opinions are as old as humanity itself. Each person has a unique worldview, and our ideas don’t always align with those of others. This divergence has led us to seek ways to assert our viewpoints, sometimes at the expense of restricting another individual’s right to freedom of expression.

Throughout history, powerful individuals—physically, socially, or economically—have shaped prevailing ideas. To balance individual rights and freedoms, including freedom of expression, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights emerged in 1948.

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Freedom of expression is a fundamental right recognized in our constitution and international treaties. It is a crucial pillar for societal functioning, allowing individuals to express ideas, opinions, and beliefs without fear of government or employer reprisals.

Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that “everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression.” This encompasses the freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive, and share information and ideas across all media and borders.

In today’s context, social networks have facilitated freedom of expression, enabling us to understand how people from different countries and cultures think. However, this newfound freedom also faces challenges, as it can be misused for disinformation or hate speech.

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Yet, freedom of expression is not absolute. Limits exist to prevent abuses and protect other essential rights and values, such as public order and individual reputations. Laws often regulate hate speech, defamation, and the spread of false news. Striking the right balance ensures the free flow of ideas without compromising societal harmony and security.

Social responsibility certifications recognize the importance of allowing employees to express their needs without fear of reprisals. Veggies from Mexico member companies should actively advocate for and protect this right.

By: Edgar Saúl Ramirez Guerrero, Internal Audit Coordinator, Veggies From Mexico