ABSTRACT
This chapter sets the backdrop for this book’s central concern. It begins with a consideration of freedom of expression and source protection issues in each of the key democracies chosen for the present focus – the Five Eyes countries, the intelligence alliance that groups the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia. These countries commonly present themselves as beacons of rights, freedoms, and liberties, including when these ideals concern freedom of expression. Except for New Zealand and, to some extent, Canada, these countries’ reputations for being leading lights on rights, freedoms, and liberties, have been under sustained attack for many years. Each of these countries is discussed in turn, with a longer discussion on Australia, in light of its status as the focal point of this book. The US is also examined in more detail in light of the “eventfulness” of that jurisdiction in the areas relevant to this book – freedom of expression and the attacks upon it; the responses to the attacks; and the incidence of leaking in that jurisdiction – and because of the US’ influential role generally on global democracy. The Australia discussion considers some laws of particular concern to journalists and the enforcement actions that pose a threat to journalists’ sources. This is followed by a discussion on the need to maintain strong and effective accountability and keen oversight and scrutiny to preserve hard-won democratic freedoms. The chapter concludes by noting that a failure to appreciate the gravity of the problem of inadequate protection for journalists’ sources will undermine democracy itself.
