At the two-day conference, delegates of 47 countries will be addressing the challenges presented by new digital media. Among the topics to be discussed are the question of internet freedom, the internet as a tool for multifaceted dialogue in a democracy, and the freedom of expression in a digital environment.

In a series of roundtable panels, participants will be examining the various aspects of journalists’ safety, as well as the obligations of states and other industry stakeholders concerning their protection. Also on the agenda are issues related to media self-regulation, the possible channels of support for ethical journalism and the challenges faced by public-service and community media.

Priority will be given to discussing internet hate speech and the vehicles available for dealing with the phenomenon both at national and international level.

At the end of the event, participants will be adopting, in addition to other resolutions concerning internet freedom, the safety of journalists and the preservation of the fundamental role of media in a digital age, a political declaration entitled Freedom of Expression and Democracy in the Digital Age – Opportunities, Rights, Responsibilities.

External links:

• Draft agenda of the conference
• Further information about the topics to be covered