WorldAugust 11, 2026
silencing
SY-len-sing
Definition
The act of preventing or suppressing the expression of independent voices, information, or dissent, especially through censorship or intimidation.
Etymology
Derived from the Middle English 'silens', ultimately tracing back to the Latin 'silentium' (stillness, quiet). It evolved to include the active suppression of speech or sound in Middle English.
In the news
The article describes the silencing of independent media by Tigrayan authorities as a repressive measure that hinders the monitoring of human rights abuses. This is critical because it prevents the public from accessing objective information about the conflict.
Ethiopia: Tigray residents at renewed risk of human rights violations as violence returns to the region
Read the full article ↗Amnesty International Australia