An assessment of the state of the freedom of expression in Council of Europe member states, based on the findings of the Council of Europe monitoring mechanisms and bodies
The Council of Europe is celebrating 70 years of its existence in 2019. Throughout this time, the freedom of expression, as enshrined in Article 10 of the European Convention, has been of central importance to the organisation. Article 10 protects the right of individuals to form, hold and express their opinions without undue interference. This is crucial for the realisation of all other human rights. Along with its corollaries of freedom of information and media freedom, the freedom of expression enables citizens to make informed choices, to participate actively in democratic processes, and to help ensure that powerful interests are held to account in line with the rule of law.
Freedom of expression, therefore, is an essential precondition for democratic security and deserves the highest attention, today as ever. Consecutive yearly assessments of the state of the freedom of expression in Europe have shown that threats to this anchor of democratic societies are growing across the continent.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AND PROPOSALS FOR ACTION
I. LEGAL GUARANTEES FOR FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION
II. SAFETY OF JOURNALISTS AND OTHER MEDIA ACTORS
III. MEDIA INDEPENDENCE
IV. MEDIA PLURALISM AND DIVERSITY
V. FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION ON THE INTERNET
