EVENTS
Freedom of Speech: A Cornerstone of Democratic Societies. Concept Note & Agenda
Organizer: International Center for the Protection of Human Rights and Democracy (ICPHRD)
Date: June 25th, 2024
Location: Chisinau, Moldova
1. Background:
Moldova, positioned at the nexus of Europe and Asia, grapples with multifaceted challenges in governance, rule of law, judiciary, corruption, and press freedom. These obstacles impede the nation's march toward stability, prosperity, and democracy. Recognizing the urgency of these issues, the International Center for the Protection of Human Rights and Democracy advocates for international collaboration and knowledge, as well as exchange of expertise to address these systemic challenges effectively.
One of the most pressing issues in Moldovan society is the lack of freedom of speech. This issue gains even greater significance when considering the upcoming presidential election in 2024 and the subsequent parliamentary elections in 2025. It is fundamentally impossible to ensure free and fair elections without the assurance of freedom of speech. Consequently, safeguarding the rights of journalists and upholding their freedom of expression emerges as one of the most critical challenges facing Moldovan society.
2. Objectives:
- Engage in a discussion focused on the topic of "Freedom of speech as a fundamental element of all contemporary democratic societies," drawing from the guiding principles of the European Union.
- Assess the status of freedom of speech and respect for journalists' rights in Moldova, including a thorough review of relevant legislation, international standards, and EU, UK, and US best practices.
- Facilitate dialogue among experts from the EU, the UK, the US, and Moldova.
- Share successful strategies from various countries in addressing similar challenges.
- Develop actionable recommendations and strategies for Moldova to enhance governance, rule of law, and democratic practices, particularly concerning freedom of speech.
3. Target Audience:
- Policy makers and officials from Moldova, the EU, the UK, and the US.
- Academics and researchers specializing in governance, law, and democracy.
- Representatives from international organizations and NGOs.
- Legal practitioners, judges, and members of the judiciary.
- Media professionals and journalists.
- Civil society activists and advocates.
4. Agenda:
09:30- 11:00: Panel Discussion:
- Rule of law and judiciary: Strengthening Institutions – Dan Mitchell
- Corruption and its Impact on Governance – Conor Powell
- Freedom of the Press: Defending Journalists' Rights – Daniel Pomerantz
- The Media as the People's Watchdog – Ivor Gaber
Moderator: Dan Mitchell
11:30- 13:15: Panel Discussion:
- Legal Protections for Journalists: Comparative Analysis – John Fund
- Building Resilient Media Institutions – John Fund
- Enhancing Press Freedom: Practical Approaches – Walid Harfush
- International standards for media independence – Zeynep Ardic
Moderator: Tanya Beckett
14:30- 16:30: Plenary Session:
- ICPHRD Presentation, and a Review of European Court of Human Rights case law on journalists' rights – Stanislav Pavlovschi
- Freedom of expression in Moldova. Review of legal provisions – Leonid Tverdun
- Presentation of Media Freedoms Survey Findings – Mitchell Barak
16:30- 17:00: Conclusion
- Formulation of Recommendations for Moldova – Tanya Beckett
- Closing Remarks – Stanislav Pavlovschi
5. Expected Outcomes:
- Identifying and defining clear and non-arbitrary criteria for tightening regulations around, and prosecuting, media outlets.
- Raising public awareness about the role of independent journalism in democratic societies.
- Increased understanding of the challenges facing Moldova in the areas of independence of media, rule of law, and democracy.
- Identification of best practices and lessons learned from other countries.
- Better understanding by journalists of their rights and duties, as well as of the role of independent media in a democratic society.
- Development of concrete recommendations and strategies for reform, as well as active action plans.
- Strengthened partnerships and collaboration among stakeholders in Moldova, Europe, the UK, and the US.
6. Call for Papers and Participation:
- The conference invites researchers, practitioners, and experts to submit papers and proposals related to the conference themes.
- Interested participants can apply to present their work or participate in panel discussions and workshops.
- Submission guidelines and deadlines will be provided on the Center’s website HumanRightsCenter.eu
7. Partnerships and Collaborations:
- The conference welcomes partnerships with government agencies, academic institutions, international organizations, and NGOs working in the fields of governance, rule of law, and democracy.
- Collaborative initiatives and joint sponsorship opportunities are available.
8. Conclusion:
The conference serves as a platform for constructive dialogue, knowledge sharing, and collaboration towards advancing governance and rule of law in Moldova. By bringing together experts from Europe, the UK, the US, and Moldova, the event aims to catalyze positive change and support the country's journey towards a more democratic and prosperous future.