Freedom of Expression Threatened by Curbs on Criticism of Government and Religion

Poland's transition to democracy is endangered by government and private restrictions on freedom of expression. In a distressing series of arrests and prosecutions for "slandering" the state, President Walesa has relied upon a repressive Communist-era law to punish government critics. This report describes some of these incidents, analyzes the relevant international law on freedom of expression, and makes recommendations to the Polish government to guarantee more vigorous protection of freedom of expression.