Arrested in 2018 for criticizing corruption, Egyptian poet Galal El-Behairy has endured torture, harsh prison conditions, and prolonged detention. His case exemplifies Egypt’s escalating crackdown on artistic freedom.
In Tunisia, artists face growing harassment and censorship, yet they continue to reclaim public spaces through creative expression. Ballet dancer Nesrine Ben Arbia performs in historic locations, resisting conservative pressures. Despite threats from extremist groups and restrictive laws, artists persist in challenging societal norms. Initiatives like Street Art in Médenine and the Dream City Festival highlight art’s power to inspire change in Tunisia’s evolving political landscape.
Iranian filmmakers face significant challenges due to strict censorship, which limits creative freedom and forces many to produce films in secret or leave the country. Nina Zarabi's story highlights these challenges
From June 2-13, 2025, UN Special Rapporteur Alexandra Xanthaki will visit Micronesia to evaluate cultural rights, inclusivity, and challenges. Her findings, including recommendations, will be presented to the UN in March 2026.
The U.S. Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution held a hearing on March 25, 2025, addressing concerns over censorship and threats to free speech.
The White House's ban on AP raises serious First Amendment concerns, setting a dangerous precedent for press freedom and government control over media access.
Hamdan Ballal, co-director of "No Other Land," was assaulted by Israeli settlers and detained by soldiers in the West Bank
The Mahmoud Khalil case has become a focal point in the ongoing controversy surrounding Columbia University, free speech, and federal funding
X blocks opposition accounts amid Turkey protests, raising free speech concerns.
The recent jailing of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu has sparked significant political unrest in Turkey, leading to widespread protests and heightened tensions between the government and opposition forces.
The Albanian government’s decision to ban TikTok for a year has led to public outrage and protests. Officials cite youth protection, while critics argue it’s a move to control information ahead of elections.
The war in Gaza has wiped out a generation of artists across all fields, erasing voices crucial to Palestinian culture and identity.
Dorgham Quraiqi, a 28-year-old Palestinian artist, was tragically killed in an Israeli airstrike on March 18, 2025. He was known for his oil paintings and community work supporting children
Miami Beach's mayor is trying to cut funding for O Cinema after it screened the controversial film No Other Land.
By adopting AI in cultural heritage management, communities finally get tools to analyse and tell own stories with precision and control.
This article addresses the report to Human Rights Council, submitted in accordance with Council resolution 55/5, from the Special Rapporteur in the field of cultural rights, Alexandra Xanthaki.
UN report highlights the risks of cultural heritage digitalization, urging ethical policies to prevent exclusion, misappropriation, and power imbalances.
The Oscar-winning documentary "No Other Land" fuels controversy over its political themes, highlighting Palestinian resistance and Israeli demolitions in the West Bank.
Brookings Institution warns of rising threats to U.S. arts, linking censorship, defunding, and authoritarian tactics
Arts dialogue highlights culture’s role in Syria’s future amid ministry debates and creative economy talks
Sukatani’s censored song sparks protests and debate on free speech, with police facing allegations of intimidation.
