20/03/2025 European Conference of Presidents of Parliament
“In an era marked by digital transformation and rising societal divisions, safeguarding freedom of expression is crucial for the preservation of democracy and human dignity,” today said Þórunn Sveinbjarnardóttir, Speaker of the Icelandic Parliament, addressing the European Conference of Presidents of Parliament in Strasbourg. In this context, she recalled that the Council of Europe has played a pivotal role in setting international standards on freedom of expression, media freedom, and access to information.
She also pointed out the proliferation of toxic information and harmful propaganda “which impairs informed public debate”, and the dominance of digital platforms, which through algorithmic filtering, creates echo chambers that deepen societal divides and lead to the radicalisation of discourse. “Furthermore, increasing threats to journalists and public restrictions on assembly pose significant challenges to free expression,” she emphasised.
“Guaranteeing freedom of expression in times of polarisation and uncertainty requires a multifaceted approach: promoting media literacy, protecting journalists, supporting independent media, and upholding international legal standards, Ms Sveinbjarnardóttir concluded.