New global survey by The Future of Free Speech, an independent U.S.-based think tank located at Vanderbilt University, India has been ranked 24th out of 33 countries for support of free speech. The report, titled ‘Who in the World Supports Free Speech?’, highlights concerns over declining public support for controversial speech worldwide and notes a disconnect between India’s strong abstract support for free speech and the practical protection of this right.
Key Highlights of Free Speech Global Index
Survey and Findings:
- The survey, conducted in October 2024, found that India scored 62.6 points, ranking 24th between South Africa (66.9) and Lebanon (61.8).
- Norway (87.9) and Denmark (87.0) topped the rankings, reflecting strong support for free expression.
- Indonesia (56.8), Malaysia (55.4), and Pakistan (57.0) showed notable improvements, though they remained in the lower rankings.
- Authoritarian-leaning nations like Hungary (85.5) and Venezuela (81.8) scored high, indicating a disconnect between government restrictions and public attitudes.
India’s Support for Free Speech:
- While a majority of Indians consider it important to speak freely without government censorship, India stood out for lower support when it comes to criticism of government policies.
- 37% of Indian respondents supported government control over speech critical of government policies, the highest percentage among all the surveyed countries.
- Comparative Insight: Only 5% of respondents in the UK and 3% in Denmark supported similar restrictions.
Key Observations on India and Free Speech
Disconnect Between Public Attitude and Practice:
India was highlighted as an exception to the general pattern where countries that support free speech also practice it.
- The report notes that India, Hungary, and Venezuela exhibit democratic backsliding, where political liberties like freedom of expression are not as robust as public sentiment might suggest.
Perceptions vs. Reality:
While Indians and South Africans perceive significant progress in free speech, global observers and rankings indicate that India’s situation has deteriorated.
Global Trends in Free Speech Support
Offensive or Controversial Speech:
- Although 90% of respondents globally support criticism of the government, India is among a few countries, along with Pakistan, the Philippines, and four African countries, where less than 75% support the right to criticize the government.
- Support for free speech is more divided when it concerns offensive statements targeting minorities, religion, or national symbols, or issues like homosexuality.
Deepfake Tolerance:
The survey also examined attitudes toward deepfakes of politicians
- Citizens of India, Hungary, Indonesia, Taiwan, and South Korea were the most tolerant of political deepfakes.
- Conversely, citizens in Venezuela, Chile, France, the UK, and Germany were among the least tolerant.