Yes, governments are capable of abusing it, and some do abuse it (ironically, Russia is one of the most corrupt and abusive governments on this front right now), but surely it is also the responsibility of authorities and governments to protect their citizens? If people are going to go round spouting stuff that promotes needless war and invasion, things that are costing thousands upon thousands of lives, why should they be allowed to do that? To say otherwise is to excuse racists, misogynists, transphobes, homophobes, nazis, Putin supporters, etc, and that is simply not acceptable.

Freedom of speech is not the same as being free to be a piece of shit. Lawful authorities and governments have a duty to prohibit speech that is hateful, prejudiced and/or incites harassment/violence. Y'all need to stop using the free speech card to excuse yourselves from being assholes.

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