In the arena of debate on issues of high public interest, not only is the expression of views well-received by public opinion protected, but also those that may clash, irritate, or concern public officials or a sector of the population.
According to a ruling by a court, this criterion responds to a constitutional value that seeks to safeguard broad debate on matters involving public figures or topics of public interest, considering it an essential guarantee of the republican system.
In a democratic society, the press is expected to report extensively on matters of public interest, while officials must be held accountable for their actions in the exercise of their public duties. Various sectors have argued that criticisms of the exercise of public office should not be sanctioned, even if they are caustic or hurtful, because the debate on issues of public interest is protected.
Democratic control through public opinion is considered fundamental to promote transparency in state activities and the accountability of officials for their public management. The work of professional journalism is defended, and accusations of misinformation from certain sectors are rejected.
Society has understood the value of the Internet, where freedom of expression and opinion has found fertile ground. The Internet has become synonymous with freedom for many people around the world, fostering an environment where opinions circulate widely.
Supra-national standards supporting journalistic work are observed, and it is established that freedom of expression and opinion is a fundamental right since 1994, having attained conventional status. The use of a means of communication to express ideas on matters of public interest implies the acceptance of the values of freedom and the inherent risks of such use.
