The Freedom of Expression Toolkit is UNESCO’s contribution to freedom of expression and it is written with upper high school students in mind. The Toolkit covers the major concepts and issues and it is written in an easy to understand, conversational manner.

The Freedom of Expression Toolkit builds on the premise that freedom of expression, as well as press freedom and freedom of information, are indispensable elements in the attainment of all human rights. Throughout this Toolkit there will be an emphasis on the four key elements of Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, namely the right to hold opinions without interference, the right to seek information, the right to receive information and the right to impart information to others.

There is no one particular way of utilizing the Toolkit. It could be used as a reference on the concepts and issues related to freedom of expression, or as a source of ideas for activities and projects to promote freedom of expression. The Toolkit also contains extensive lists of other resources related to freedom of expression, such as websites, directories, etc.

Instructors, students and other users may follow the Toolkit as it is structured: beginning with an overview of the concept, identifying then the conditions where freedom of expression would flourish or flounder, going through the two chapters that explain the role of journalism and the Internet, and finishing with a section that emphasizes the practical activities one could carry out. The last segment of the Toolkit consists of a section dedicated to case studies. Each section or chapter could be used as a standalone resource or as part of a series.