Constitutional and Administrative Law

This chapter introduces those rights and freedoms that are considered core to the democratic process. Those freedoms (often labelled ‘civil liberties’) ensure that individuals are able to circulate and obtain information freely, are able to participate in the election of representatives (and governments) and are able to peacefully – and collectively – make public demonstrations of political viewpoints without incurring criminal sanctions. In turn this chapter will therefore consider freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, the liberty and security of the person, and the right to vote.