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Purcell and Others v. Ireland, dec., No. 15404/89, ECommHR, 16 April 1991

Abstract

Prohibition on publishing any interview statement by representatives of terrorist organisations. Legitimate interference with the right to freedom of expression.

Normative references

Art. 10 ECHR

Ruling

Ban intended to prevent the broadcast media’s being used to advocate support for organisations that incited violence and sought to undermine the constitutional order does not breach Art. 10 ECHR. Such interference in the right to freedom of expression is “necessary in a democratic society” within the meaning of Art. 10 para. 2 of the Convention. 
(Case concerning the prohibition on broadcasting interviews with the spokesman of a political party sympathetic to a terrorist organisation. The Commission declared the application inadmissible).