Freedom of conscience Every person has the right to freedom of conscience, which includes freedom of thought, opinion, religion or belief and the freedom to practice and give expression to the same, whether in public or private. No person can be forced to take an oath that goes against their belief or religion. Parents and guardians of minor children have the right to determine the moral and religious upbringing of their children in accordance with their beliefs. This should not conflict with children’s rights to education, health, safety and welfare. Religious groups may establish institutions where matters of religion are taught. Freedom of expression and freedom of media Every person has the right to freedom of expression which includes: • freedom to seek, receive and communicate ideas and other information; • freedom of artistic expression, scientific research, creativity and academic freedom; In addition: • Freedom of press and other media of communication is also guaranteed and journalists do not have to reveal the sources of their information. • Broadcasting a n d other electronic media of communication can be freely established as long as they comply with necessary licensing procedures. • State- owned media of communication must be neutral or nonpartisan. They must also be free to determine their own content and give fair opportunity for representing opinions and views, which may conflict with government’s views. • Freedom of expression and freedom of the press do not allow people to encourage violence, hatred or malicious injury to a person’s reputation. It also does not allow people to invade the privacy of others without good reason. Access to information Every citizen or permanent resident of Zimbabwe has the right to access information held by the State where the information is required to hold the State accountable for its actions. This right also applies to artificial persons (such as companies) and to the Zimbabwean media. In addition, everyone has the right to access information held by any person, including the State, where it is needed to enable the exercise or protection a right. All people are entitled to ask the State, government agencies and related bodies to correct or delete information about them that is incorrect, untrue or misleading. Legislation must be put in place to give effect to such rights. This legislation may restrict access to certain information in the interests of defense, public 6