Having the right to speak does not always mean feeling free to do so. That distinction was at the heart of a panel discussion hosted by the Permanent Representation of Norway to the Council of Europe with the three winners of the 2026 Fritt Ord Youth Prize and Council of Europe representatives.
The event “Dare to Disagree? Youth, Freedom of Expression and the Courage to Challenge the Norm”, explored the pressures that can discourage young people from expressing their views, including online scrutiny, polarisation and fear of social consequences. It looked at how democratic societies can make room for disagreement, including opinions that others find uncomfortable.
In her introductory remarks, Council of Europe Deputy Secretary General, Tanja Gonggrijp, stressed that speaking up takes courage and that enabling people to do so is central to democracy. Quoting from the Manifesto developed by young people at the Youth Innovating Democracy conference in June of this year, she highlighted the difference between being invited to participate and being given influence.
“Democracy is not something that belongs only to those who hold power. It belongs to us, the people,” she said, adding that human rights education is fundamental, not an add-on. Gonggrijp also highlighted the Council of Europe’s role in defending civic spaces where people can express opinions and challenge prevailing norms.
The Fritt Ord winners, Svale Toreskaas Vedvik, Cecilia Thanh ha Nguyen and Lena Miloradovic, brought perspectives on finding a voice, thinking independently in the age of artificial intelligence, and speaking up for people whose experiences may go unheard. It was noted that those who are not the loudest in a room still have opinions and need space to express them.
The discussion also examined what institutions can do to support democratic participation and freedom of expression. Nina Grmuša, Adviser for the promotion of a Youth Perspective at the Council of Europe, emphasised the need for spaces where young people can speak up. Cécile Gréboval, Policy Adviser for the New Democratic Pact for Europe, presented the ongoing consultations under the Pact, including listening to the voices of young people. She invited participants to take part in the online citizens' consultation that will be launched on 12 October.