Should there be heavy fines on offensive and defamatory statements made on social media platforms in Bahrain?
‘Offensive’ is often a point of view, whereas ‘defamation’ and ‘derogatory’ statements constitute actual harm.
Hurt feelings are unfortunate, but one shouldn’t be reprimanded simply for having a difference of opinion and outlook, even if it goes against popularly or commonly held beliefs and sentiments, provided they’re done with a modicum of civility.
However, defamation and the use of derogatory and offensive comments to a great extent are, and should be, punishable by law.
Attacking or defaming a person with accusations related to a person’s faith, ethnicity, sexual orientation, nationality, gender, political ideology or religious beliefs must be handled firmly, especially if it’s done hiding behind the anonymity of a fake puppet account.
@ameersmeer