20/03/2025 Conférence européenne des Président·e·s de Parlement
Anglais seulement, traduction en cours
“Freedom of expression is one of the main pillars on which our democracies and the future of our societies are based. Without freedom of expression, there may be something else, but not full democracies. Therefore, it is essential to protect it with all the means at our disposal”, today said Pedro Rollán, President of the Spanish Senate, addressing the European Conference of Presidents of Parliament, in Strasbourg.
“Defending freedom of expression means defending our democracies and freedoms. It is what has helped us make our countries examples of tolerance, prosperity, freedom, equality, and modernity in the world”, he added.
Mr. Rollán stressed that “some countries are legislating to ensure that only favorable opinions about their government's actions are heard. In these states, they are attempting to implement measures such as targeting non-aligned journalists and eliminating critical media outlets under the pretext that they are pseudo-media, or under some other excuse. This is a new kind of modern censorship. We must remember that democracy is defended with more freedom, not less; with more pluralism, not less; with more rights, not fewer”.
The President of the Spanish Senate emphasized that “free and independent media are fundamental in a democracy. They are one of the main defenses against information manipulation. The polarization promoted by some based on their interests and to maintain power or gain electoral benefits poses challenges for those of us who defend freedom of expression.”
Defending freedom of expression “involves not only the right of every individual to express themselves, but also fostering an environment where all voices are heard and respected, even critical ones and those with which we disagree”, Mr Rollán added.