civil liberties

Cultural  

1. In general, the rights to freedom of thought, expression, and action, and the protection of these rights from government interference or restriction. Civil liberties are the hallmark of liberal, democratic “free” societies. In the United States, the Bill of Rights guarantees a variety of civil liberties, most notably freedom of assembly, freedom of the press, freedom of religion, and freedom of speech, expressed in the First Amendment (see also First Amendment). (See civil rights.)

---

Example Sentences

Its tactics have drawn heavy criticism from many Democrats, civil liberties groups and NGOs.

From BBC

Lawmakers in the EU parliament's civil liberties committee gave it their green light Wednesday, paving the way for approval by the full assembly on March 26.

From Barron's

In response to these increasingly aggressive methods, civil liberties groups have pointed people towards state-level laws that might protect their privacy, whenever applicable.

From Salon

Critics of involuntary civil-commitment programs argue they violate civil liberties and stigmatize mental illness.

From The Wall Street Journal

Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents earlier this week, raising concerns among press freedom advocates and civil liberties groups about due process and enforcement tactics.

From Salon

Related Words

• freedom
• freedom of religion
• freedom of speech
• human rights