The right to freedom of expression, including the right to receive and impart information and ideas without interference and regardless of frontiers is a cornerstone of democratic society. This is asserted by the Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights and apply equally online and offline.

The Council of Europe is conscious that internet provides a unique environment with huge potential for innovating forms of exercising human rights. Therefore it has engaged in standards setting work to address the challenges that human rights may face in that environment to ensure people maximum freedom but also maximum safety, with minimum but necessary constraints. In order to achieve that ambition, it resorts to the co-operation of best experts and follows an open and consultative approach.

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Relevant soft law instruments

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"Everyone has the right to freedom of expression"

Art. 10 European Convention on Human Rights

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