Democracy relies on free and safe participation of the citizens in public life. As we mark International Day of Democracy 2026, much of our civic engagement, information consumption, and political debate now takes place online. Yet, digital spaces do not guarantee equal participation for all.
As highlighted in the 2025 Report of the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, “cybercrime has become a systemic problem with a deep impact on our societies,” (p.67) threatening not only individual security but democracy itself. Women and children are disproportionately affected by cyberviolence, and the risks are even greater for women journalists and political representatives. They often become targets of cyber harassment and other coordinated threats such as stalking and doxxing. These attacks create a hostile environment that undermines their safety and sense of belonging in political and civic spaces. The resulting chilling effect silences victims and discourages them from participation in public life. “For young women who are only beginning to form their identities as active citizens, the normalisation of such violence can be especially damaging and deter them from expressing opinions, engaging in debates or aspiring to leadership roles.” (p.26)
As the Secretary General highlighted in his 2025 report, “A free society depends on free voices.” (p.5).
Adequate legal and policy response are necessary to uphold fair participation in public life and safeguard democratic values. The Convention on Cybercrime (Budapest Convention) is a vital tool for protecting democracy un the digital age. With 83 State Parties, it is the most significant international treaty on cybercrime, providing a legal framework to criminalise cyberviolence offenses such as illegal system access, online stalking and online hate speech. The Convention also establishes mechanisms for international co-operation and sharing electronic evidence enabling states to better investigate cybercrime and any crime involving electronic evidence. Through these tools countries can address challenges posed by cybercrime and uphold and protect citizen’s rights, fostering safer online spaces for inclusive and meaningful participation in democratic life. The Second Additional Protocol to the Cybercrime Convention, on enhanced co-operation and disclosure of electronic evidence (CETS No. 224), provides additional tools to protect victims against offences in cyberspace.
Ensuring that no one is silenced or excluded in the digital space strengthens freedom of expression, public participation, the rule of law and democracy itself.
