Suppression of Dissent: What It Is and What to Do About It

Abstract

Critics of powerful individuals or systems are sometimes suppressed: they are attacked using various methods such as censorship, reprimands or dismissal. Suppression can cause major losses for society, for example when dangerous activities continue because criticism is squelched or inhibited. There are various ways to respond to suppression, including doing nothing, using informal methods, using formal methods, promoting legal protection, gaining support from unions and other organisations, and mounting publicity campaigns. Acting against suppression is important to protect dissenters and to help create a society in which dissent is welcome. Key words: dissent; suppression; censorship