Freedom

Without the support of the U.S. government, pro-democracy forces around the world will wither as authoritarianism gains ground.

The United States is committed to protecting freedom of expression abroad—but in far too narrow terms.

Americans’ commitment to unfettered free speech is starting to fray. If Trump can’t control his words, those around him have a responsibility to keep hate speech in check.

With Xi Jinping's great power comes great irresponsibility.

After eight years at Foreign Policy, here are the ten most popular Best Defense posts.

Cambodia’s autocratic leader is trying to shut down his country’s most celebrated journalistic training ground.

There’s only one remaining way to get unfiltered access to the outside world in China – and Beijing just banned it.

Beijing's paranoia is about to kill the country's booming live-streaming sector — and it won't be the only victim.

Democracy protesters thought they were shielded by the justice system — until Beijing turned it against them.

Blaming the victim is the easiest way for people to sleep at night in a country where the government could crush you at any moment.

Reports are coming in that this Friday, in a Miami speech, President Donald Trump will unveil his revisions to former President Barack Obama’s controversial policy to normalize U.S. relations with the Castro dictatorship in Cuba. He's right to scale it back.

Tibetans are setting themselves on fire in record numbers to protest Beijing’s heavy hand. But the brutal cycle of violence is only increasing.

Do the legacies of these two figures still resonate in today’s world?

In the United States, subscriptions are up and investigative journalists are in high demand. But the president's war on the media is just beginning.

The administration has already made it abundantly clear that supporting open societies, free speech, and the protection of civilians is of little concern.

It’s quite a time for consolidated authoritarian regimes!

Hungary’s nationalist prime minister is intent on shutting down the country's Central European University. We must not let it happen.

For 15 years, I’ve spoken out against executive overreach. But in the Trump era, even theoretical criticism puts a target on your back.

The tyrant of Uzbekistan assassinated his enemies, jailed anyone who spoke against him, and crushed human rights. Why did America so willingly look the other way?

Even historic defenders of speech like Denmark and the United Kingdom are starting to choose "social harmony" over free expression.