The Helsinki Committee for Human Rights in Slovakia continues its series of workshops aimed at promoting human rights education, providing university students and the public with insights from experts working in government or non-governmental organizations. On November 20, 2023, the second in a series of HVS workshops was held on the topic of Freedom of Expression in a Democratic Society: Hate Speech and International Events. The discussion took place at BISLA (Bratislava International School of Liberal Arts).
The second workshop, HVS#2, focused on Freedom of Expression in a Democratic Society: Hate Speech and International Events. The discussion was opened by the Rector of BISLA, Samuel Abraham, and the guests were academics and human rights experts, Dagmar Kusá and Andrea Erdőšová. The discussion was moderated by the Chair of the Helsinki Committee in Slovakia, Sylvia Tiryaki. The discussion covered a variety of topics including the threat of disinformation in society, the possibility of combating disinformation, but also, for example, who has the authority to say what disinformation is. The guests also took questions from the participants, for which we are very grateful.
The Helsinki Committee for Human Rights in Slovakia believes that human rights education is essential to creating a fairer and more equal society. By promoting the values of freedom, democracy, and human rights, the organisation hopes to inspire individuals and communities to act and defend these principles through these discussions. The HVS series provides a valuable platform for students and the public to meet with experts, exchange ideas, and learn more about these critical issues.
The second meeting of the HVS series met with a positive response from the participants who appreciated the interactive discussions and valuable contributions of the experts. The Helsinki Committee for Human Rights in Slovakia is planning another workshop in the first half of 2024, which will focus on another relevant topic.