Risks and opportunities of the Metaverse evaluated in Paris by the PACE Committee on Culture, Science, Education and Media

Freedom of expression is one of the foundations of a democratic and pluralistic society. Its corollary is access for everyone to accurate, reliable and timely information, a key precondition for informed public participation. The role of the media and journalists in seeking out, verifying and distributing information is crucial.

States have the responsibility to provide adequate safeguards, both through law and practice, for the effective enjoyment and protection of freedom of expression, including by creating an enabling environment for free and responsible media to flourish and play their essential role in democracy.

The Council of Europe is well placed to help prevent and address the threats to the exercise of the rights and freedoms guaranteed by Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights, both offline and in the online environment.

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Back Risks and opportunities of the Metaverse evaluated in Paris by the PACE Committee on Culture, Science, Education and Media

On Thursday, 23 March 2023, Patrick Penninckx, head of the Information Society Department of the Council of Europe, addressed the PACE Committee on Culture, Science, Education and Media in Paris, presenting the Metaverse's impact on human rights, democracy and the rule of law, examples of potential benefits and legal challenges inherently tied to the novice character of the Metaverse. Participants further exchanged on these challenges and potential responses.

In October 2022, the Parliamentary Assembly appointed Andi Lucian Cristea (Romania, SOC) as rapporteur on the issue of "Risks and opportunities of the Metaverse". The PACE report will analyse the issues at stake, including the role that the Council of Europe could play in the Metaverse, review existing systems and standards both in its design and use, and provide recommendations to member States on how to ensure the protection and promotion of democracy, human rights and the rule of law, including via this new and potentially revolutionary technology.

The Council of Europe is also preparing a report on the "Challenges of Immersive Realities" in cooperation with IEEE, one of the world's largest technical professional organisation gathering communities and experts of engineering, computing and technology information.

Presentation

Details on the PACE website

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Paris 23 March 2023

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In time of conflict

The right to freedom of expression and information constitutes one of the essential foundations of democratic society. In conflict situations and wars, the role of the media is critical in providing the public with accurate and timely information. Trustworthy news and images can contribute to the protection of civilians and conflict prevention, bring to the attention of the international community the horrors and reality of conflict and expose violations of human rights and international humanitarian law.

Visit the "Freedom of expression in times of conflict" webpage

Journalists Matter Campaign

Journalists Matter, the Council of Europe Campaign for the Safety of Journalists is an initiative aiming to promote press freedom and protect journalists from violence, threats, and harassment while performing their duties. As part of this Campaign, the Council of Europe is inviting everyone to support their cause, take action for their enhanced protection, while raising awareness about the importance of safeguarding journalists and their right to report the news freely and without fear.

Visit the "Campaign for the Safety of Journalists" webpage