Saudi media outlets employ many columnists and journalists who address issues that matter to people at all levels of society. These writers are known for their boldness and the ability to address certain issues freely in a variety of publications.
Does freedom have limits? If the answer is positive, then is the reporter with absolute freedom of expression able to write about anything without a goal and neglect the clear noble message and constructive criticisms that can benefit his society? Can the columnist/journalist pass judgments that destroy society’s solid values? Can he invite people to social chaos without supervision?
In my opinion, that’s not freedom of expression but a mess and there is a huge difference between the two. If the columnist’s chaotic opinion is taken as a great vision, then he chooses chaos to be a system for our society if we think that chaos and system are synonyms.
Many publications hesitate in giving their writers absolute freedom of expression. They fear the misunderstanding and misuse of the concept of freedom. Al-Yaum newspaper has taken a quantum leap in giving a reasonable amount of freedom to its writers, within the boundaries of public understanding of freedom of expression. This contributed directly to my desires to continue writing in Al-Eqtisadiah for more than three years and here in Al-Yaum for almost a year.
When the reporter is freed from chains and as long as his criticism is constructive, he should not be restrained by any values society imposes or has inherited. An honorable writer must make use of the freedom allowed him in order to serve his society and not break it into pieces. He has to be a role model because he is a part of society. He has to be honest with himself so that the society he is addressing believes in him.
If readers feel that the writer’s justifications and proofs are genuine, reflecting a viewpoint without direct offense or damage to certain people or implied accusations, then society will admire and respect him. Writers must avoid dropping written bombs on certain people, believing that this is the path to success and fame. It will only bring them society’s wrath and they will become famous for their insincerity.
Journalists and columnists are not only individuals but they are the living conscience and voice of society. Let us all remember that our societies need us more than ever, so let us unite in helping to promote our society instead of breaking it apart.
