Legal Issues in Journalism: Navigating Free Speech and Privacy

Akwagiobe Richard Akpanke and Aminu Bakori Mohammed

Faculty of Law Kampala International University Uganda

ABSTRACT

Journalists today operate within an intricate web of legal and ethical considerations, balancing the competing demands of free speech and privacy. This paper investigates the legal principles governing these rights, their historical development, and their modern applications across different jurisdictions. Drawing on case studies and legal precedents, the discussion highlights how journalists can navigate privacy expectations while upholding public interest. Ethical considerations, including the role of integrity, accuracy, and accountability, are also examined as key to fostering responsible journalism. Finally, the paper anticipates future trends in media law, shaped by technological advancements and evolving societal norms, and underscores the importance of informed decision-making in creating journalism that is both ethical and legally sound.

Keywords: Free speech, privacy law, journalism ethics, First Amendment, public interest, media law.

CITE AS: Akwagiobe Richard Akpanke and Aminu Bakori Mohammed. (2025). Legal Issues in Journalism: Navigating Free Speech and Privacy. RESEARCH INVENTION JOURNAL OF CURRENT ISSUES IN ARTS AND MANAGEMENT 4(1):31-34. https://doi.org/10.59298/RIJCIAM/2025/413134