In a complex world, dialogue, debate and a plurality of views are crucial to make informed decisions – this is the basis for our decision making in Europe and the premise for effective multilateralism that benefits all worldwide”. These words summarize the overarching spirit of our joint celebration of Europe Day and World Press Freedom Day, which took place on 30 May at UNESCO.

To celebrate this special occasion the EU Delegation placed youth at the center stage by inviting a diverse group of young engaging voices for a debate performance shedding light into how Artificial Intelligence (AI) shapes the freedom of expression in the EU and around the world. Addressing the most pressing challenges posed by AI, this debate truly demonstrated that free, open, fair and inclusive dialogue is crucial to drive positive change and innovation everywhere and for everyone!

The exciting debate was followed by an expert panel featuring the UN Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief, Nazila Ghanea, the Permanent Representative of Chile to UNESCO, Raul Fernandez Daza and the President of the UNESCO-NGO liaison committee, Nick Newland. The panelists situated the debate within a broader Human Rights context and highlighted the importance of inclusivity and civil society involvement in the regulation of new technologies.