A Judicial Approach to Freedom of Speech and Expression of Journalist: A Comparative Study of BRICS Nations

Freedom of speech and press of journalists are essential fundamental rights for a functioning democracy. In the modern world, freedom of speech and expression plays a vital role for safeguarding the democratic governance, promoting societal transparency and accountability for the smooth functioning of the governmental organizations. Journalism is a benevolent profession and considered as the fourth pillar in the democratic society. Journalism provides influence-free or impartial information to the society and Journalists fulfil their role as a watchdog with freedom of speech and expression. Freedom of speech and expression empowers journalists to deliver information free from external pressures and maintaining their information reliable and credible. This study is based on objective, the status in regard to the judicial approach: a comparative analysis of BRICS Nations: Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. And how the Reporters without Borders (RSF, a French word) is playing its part in information transparency. In this comparative study on freedom of speech and expression of journalists in BRICS Nations shown judicial approach varies from one nation to another. This study adopted doctrinal methodology in this research paper. In this study, it founds that countries among BRICS Nations such as Brazil and South Africa have more protective measures in regard to the freedom of speech and expression of journalists, while Russia and China an environment with limited discretionary space for the individuals. The judiciary often step in to protect journalists' rights, but there are still concerns about government influence especially toward journalists. The freedom of speech and expression for journalists in India faces challenges, despite the judiciary's role in keeping checks on government access and protecting journalists' rights