Free and safe expression and dissemination of information are pillars of democracy. Yet repression continues, particularly against journalists, activists and academics. The Commissioner helps national authorities to address structural barriers, combat hate speech and support the legitimate activities of the media and civil society.
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Oleg Orlov's trial is a travesty of justice
Oleg Orlov - a prominent human rights defender and long-time partner of my office – faces a prison sentence on charges clearly aimed at punishing him for continuously protesting against Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine.
Oleg Orlov is one of the leaders of Memorial - a Nobel Peace Prize co-laureate and the oldest and most respected human rights group, liquidated as part of a decade-long crackdown on the freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly and association in Russia that began with the adoption of the law on so-called “foreign agents” and has dramatically intensified in the context of the war against Ukraine. full article
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