The UK has reaffirmed its commitment to the fundamental right of freedom of expression at the UN Human Rights Council. Delivering a statement for the Interactive Dialogue on Freedom of Expression, the UK's Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders, commended the Special Rapporteur for her dedication to protecting this right worldwide. The UK expressed its deep appreciation for the Special Rapporteur's leadership, independence, and consistent defence of journalists, human rights defenders, and open civic space.
The UK remains committed to this essential right, both online and offline, and is co-chair of the Media Freedom Coalition. This right is crucial for democratic societies, accountability, and the protection of all other human rights. Digital platforms and large technology companies are increasingly influential in shaping public debate, and their decisions have profound implications for access to information, media pluralism, and user safety.
The UK supports efforts to promote greater transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights in the design and governance of digital platforms. In a bid to ensure that digital technologies strengthen, rather than restrict, freedom of expression, the UK will continue to engage with partners on this important matter.
The statement also highlighted the need for states to take practical steps to ensure that technology companies respect freedom of expression while avoiding over-regulation or unintended restrictions on legitimate speech.