09/04/2019 | 11:49:48 I thank Mr Adão SILVA for his good report, “Strengthening co-operation with the United Nations in implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development”. The 2030 Agenda includes 17 Sustainable Development Goals, including our common values like human rights, the rule of law and good governance through democratic institutions. The United Nations and the Council of Europe need to continue this work together within their respective mandates. The Council has to work more actively for the... 23/01/2019 | 16:17:53 I congratulate the rapporteurs on their excellent reports. The topical issues of media freedom, disinformation and propaganda and its effects on democratic elections raise many concerns in states across Europe. A free, independent and pluralistic media environment is essential for democratic elections. The growing phenomenon of disinformation, propaganda and hate speech challenges the democratic process. The electorate cannot enjoy genuine freedom of choice if that choice is not well informed... 22/01/2019 | 19:13:56 I would like to congratulate the rapporteur on his excellent work. This topic is highly important and is at the very core of the Council of Europe’s fundamental values when it comes to respect for universal human rights. Human rights are indivisible – there is no room for religious or cultural exceptions. The European Convention on Human Rights is an international instrument binding all member States, whereas the Cairo Declaration is a political, non-binding document. The Cairo Declaration... 22/01/2019 | 11:47:06 Europe is living through a crucial period in representative politics, and recent referendums have raised many concerns about their justification and their consequences. Concerns have also been raised about the populist aspirations that come with the campaigning and media coverage, which can make a complex question seem like a black and white one. I agree with the report that the increased role of the Internet and, especially, the influence of social media have fundamentally changed the nature...