Invitation to comment by 25 August - Freedom of Expression

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 Invitation to comment by 25 August

The Steering Committee on Media and Information Society (CDMSI) invites comments from the public on two draft texts that were prepared by its sub-ordinate bodies and that are meant to be adopted by the Committee of Ministers in early 2018.

The draft recommendation of the Committee of Ministers to member states on the roles and responsibilities of internet intermediaries was prepared by the Committee of Experts on Internet Intermediaries (MSI-NET). The experts will meet again in September to review all comments received and to finalise the draft ahead of its review by the CDMSI in December.

The draft recommendation of the Committee of Ministers to member states on media pluralism and transparency of media ownership was prepared by the Committee of Experts on Media Pluralism and Transparency of Media Ownership (MSI-MED). The experts will meet again in September to consider the comments received and to finalise the draft ahead of its review by the CDMSI in December.

Comments should be provided through email by clicking here.

Strasbourg 13 July 2017

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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