The Rapporteurs have urged states to actively support and welcome women who attempt to
make their voices heard.63 They have also said that states have a responsibility to eliminate
the atmosphere of fear that dissuades women from exercising their right to freedom of
expression64. This atmosphere is often created by continuing discriminatory attitudes and
practices which are justified by customary practices, cultural history and social norms.65
Such discrimination is not time-bound; the Rapporteurs have highlighted that it continues
in the newer spaces that have developed, for example the digital environment, to which
women have unequal access.66 They have pointed to the effect of such discrimination,
particularly on impunity, violence against women, violence against children67, and peace
building.6869
According to the Rapporteurs, states must take account of the fact that the right to freedom
of expression may be exercised in “distinctly different” ways according to gender.70 They
have also called on states to place much more emphasis on positive and proactive measures
to protect women’s right to freedom of expression.71 In 2014, the Special Rapporteurs from
the UN, the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), the Organisation
of American States (OAS) and the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights
(ACHPR) worked together to expand this, explaining that states should take positive steps to
ensure that women can achieve their right to freedom of expression without discrimination.
This includes modifying and eliminating harmful stereotypes, prejudices and practices,
amongst them traditional or customary values or practices, which undermine women’s
ability to enjoy the right to freedom of expression.72
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ARTICLE 19 - Censored gender: Women’s right to freedom of expression and information in Myanmar - Page 24