Letters: Dismissal of French satirist shows freedom of speech is in danger

To the Editor,

I write regarding Nick Inman’s recent article defending the satirist Guillaume Meurice.

Long before computer surveillance was imagined, I worked in China for a year. Already the depth of control over what people could say aloud was chilling. 

Back in the UK most people did not seem to realise that the right to speak freely is something that has to be defended and little by little is being chipped away.

Read more: Comment – France needs to protect its satirists

Now I live in France which claims to be the land of “liberty”, but the dismissal of Guillaume Meurice shows that it is not. 

What comedians say should be left to their discretion. They should be free to challenge people to reflect on their thoughts and prejudices. It is a vital part of the process that holds human actions to account.

Liz Davidson, by email

What do you think about French satirists? Do they fulfil an important role? Let us know at letters@connexionfrance.com