On satire and the freedom of expression

Satire has always been a great tradition in France as an exercise of the freedom of expression. During the French Revolution in the 18th century, the middle class would expose scandals and corruption involving the ruling monarchy through funny cartoons, which were used as propaganda among the masses for the overthrow of the oppressors and for the attainment of social justice. Since then, this art form has become a way for the French to express and exchange views on a variety of topics through humour.

It is for these reasons that the attack on Charlie Hebdo was so appalling for France. Our president, François Hollande, called the attack a “barbaric act of terrorism,” and rightfully so.

These people, claiming to have been offended by the cartoons made by Charlie Hebdo, killed 17 people in the name of a twisted interpretation of Islam. They attempted to strike fear, silence all who oppose their views, and deny us of our right to the freedom of expression.

This is unacceptable, not only for France, but for all those who uphold the universal values of liberty and democracy.  Nobody should die for humour, but more importantly, nobody should die for expressing the truth, even those that are painfully difficult to hear.

The main objective of satire is not to insult. In its core, satire seeks to create discourse and engage the public to take a second look at the conventions that would have otherwise just been accepted. Through humour, it encourages the audience to reflect on, question, and criticize policies and institutions for these to evolve and adapt to the needs of the present.

By posing these kinds of questions, people participate in a type of political exercise. Satire hopes to make its audience laugh, and many times, it encourages them to read between the lines.

This magazine and its team, which continued on with their pens and paper despite the threat of death, symbolize the freedom to speak up. This was the reason why millions all over the world, including Filipinos, stood together to show the terrorists that they have failed in silencing us. In fact, people are noisier than ever — each has become more emboldened to express their thoughts and be heard.

France is overwhelmed by all the messages of support and solidarity. We also thank our friends here in the Philippines, many of whom have showed the importance they attach to the freedom of speech and to the freedom of the press.

Charlie Hebdo released their latest issue last week, staying true to their raison d’être with the same wit and absurdity that their fallen friends were known for. They will not be silenced, and neither should we as we continue to do our part in protecting the values of liberty and democracy.

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(Gilles Garachon is the French Ambassador.)