The annual conferences of the Estonian Institute of Human Rights aim to look at human rights from new aspects, to tie this topic more broadly to democracy, security and societal change, and to analyse the impact of human rights on democracy in today’s world. In doing so, it is important to ask: does the human rights debate really contribute to the development of democracy, or has it become a demagogic tool conveniently used to attack countries that respect human rights?
The Institute’s annual conferences provide an opportunity to broaden the understanding of human rights and facilitate a dialogue between different perspectives. We are ready to discuss and analyse how human rights influence the development of democracy and what role the so-called human rights rhetoric plays in the struggle between the aggressive minority and the silent majority.
The aim of the conferences is not only to discuss these issues, but the organisers also want to take this opportunity to promote freedom of thought and media, to fight disinformation and to take a stand in defence of journalists and internet users. The debates are essential so that different groups and institutions in society – public institutions and bodies, NGOs and interest groups, the press, politicians – can understand each other better and be prepared to stand together for common basic values. Without understanding human rights, they cannot be defended.
The annual conferences of the Estonian Institute of Human Rights aim to look at human rights from new aspects, to tie this topic more broadly to democracy, security and societal change, and to analyse the impact of human rights on democracy in today’s world. In doing so, it is important to ask: does the human rights debate really contribute to the development of democracy, or has it become a demagogic tool conveniently used to attack countries that respect human rights?
The Institute’s annual conferences provide an opportunity to broaden the understanding of human rights and facilitate a dialogue between different perspectives. We are ready to discuss and analyse how human rights influence the development of democracy and what role the so-called human rights rhetoric plays in the struggle between the aggressive minority and the silent majority.
The aim of the conferences is not only to discuss these issues, but the organisers also want to take this opportunity to promote freedom of thought and media, to fight disinformation and to take a stand in defence of journalists and internet users. The debates are essential so that different groups and institutions in society – public institutions and bodies, NGOs and interest groups, the press, politicians – can understand each other better and be prepared to stand together for common basic values. Without understanding human rights, they cannot be defended.
The annual conferences of the Estonian Institute of Human Rights aim to look at human rights from new aspects, to tie this topic more broadly to democracy, security and societal change, and to analyse the impact of human rights on democracy in today’s world. In doing so, it is important to ask: does the human rights debate really contribute to the development of democracy, or has it become a demagogic tool conveniently used to attack countries that respect human rights?
The Institute’s annual conferences provide an opportunity to broaden the understanding of human rights and facilitate a dialogue between different perspectives. We are ready to discuss and analyse how human rights influence the development of democracy and what role the so-called human rights rhetoric plays in the struggle between the aggressive minority and the silent majority.
“Falsehood flies, and truth comes limping after it”
(Jonathan Swift) – Disinformation between conscious false and unconscious twisting the truth
Disinformation is one of the main challenges to media freedom, especially in the digital age. Disinformation, or misinformation, refers to the deliberate dissemination of false information, fake news and manipulative information with the aim of influencing public opinion, spreading distrust and confusion.
Disinformation prevents people from obtaining truthful and objective information and jeopardises the functioning of democratic societies. The growing role of the internet in the media landscape has brought new challenges to media freedom. Internet freedom means the right to use the internet without censorship, blocking or other restrictions. At the same time, the internet can be a vehicle for spreading disinformation and restricting freedom of expression. It is therefore important to strike a balance between internet freedom and the fight against misinformation, while ensuring that people have access to diverse, free and reliable information.
“…I cannot guarantee freedom after speech”
(Idi Amin) – How to guarantee freedom before and after speech
Freedom of media and speech.
Everyone has the right to express his or her opinion and to receive every type of information, as well as to have access to different ideas, knowledge and opinions. Freedom of media is an essential part of this right, as it provides access to diverse and reliable information and to necessary debates.
In turn, one of the preconditions for media freedom is the protection of journalists. It is often journalists who expose corruption, human rights abuses and other socially important or painful issues. Therefore, journalists should be able to do their work without risk to their freedom, life and health. The protection of journalists helps to ensure an independent and comprehensive press and encourages people to express their opinions publicly.
“Nothing and no-one can stop…”
(V. Putin) – Human rights and “human rights”
The Russian panel is a regular part of the annual conference, and we will not abandon it this time either. However, in order to protect the lives and freedom of speakers and participants, no substantive information will be published at this time.
See you at the Annual Conference of the Estonian Institute of Human Rights, where together we will discover new perspectives regarding the importance of human rights and join our forces for the development of democracy!
“This notion that the era of Stalinists and Hitlers is over is perilous.”
(Lennart Meri) – “What’s next?”
In the future, the world and society may become more multifaceted and complex. Globalization and technological advancements are leading to changes in social and political structures, giving rise to new challenges and problems.
The question of whether international law and justice function effectively is intricate. Despite the existence of international organizations and instruments dedicated to promoting justice and human rights, their impact and effectiveness are often questionable. It’s crucial to recognize that the enforcement of international law heavily relies on the political will of states, making enforcement a challenging task.
Joint declarations, appeals, memoranda, and positions of international organizations can be mere words on paper if they lack real weight and impact. It’s vital that these documents and positions are supported by tangible actions that contribute to bringing about change and solving problems. Equally important is that they are acknowledged and considered by countries and individuals.
