World Press Freedom Day: Digital threats to free expression & climate discourse in Latin America and beyond

Santiago, Chile — Together with Global Witness and IPANDETEC, we’re hosting a side event at the UNESCO 2024 World Press Freedom Day Conference entitled, “The Online Dangers to Freedom of Expression and Climate Communication in Latin America and Beyond.”

Central America stands out as one of the most hostile regions for the practice of journalism in the Americas. In this group of countries, various organizations report experiences ranging from judicial harassment to imprisonment and even murder. But increasingly attacks also take place in the digital environment, including defamation, doxxing, and censorship. These tactics deprive journalists of the ability to fully exercise their right to freedom of expression in a safe manner.

At a wider level, online hate, disinformation, and other digital threats present growing obstacles to reporting and communicating on the climate crisis. Journalists, climate scientists, and environmental defenders have long been instrumental to public understanding of our changing climate, documenting its shifts, sounding the alarm on its effects, and clarifying its remedies. However, online harassment and abuse can have serious impacts on their well-being and imperil their work.

This session looks at the digital threats to freedom of expression in Latin America and the intrinsic links to environmental and climate communication globally. It brings together experts, journalists, and human rights defenders to explore the challenges of online violence and related threats to democracy and climate action. Speakers will also share practices to promote resilient journalism and information ecosystems in the digital age.

SPEAKERS:

• Paolo Nigro Herrero, Digital Security Helpline Shift Manager, Access Now
• Yamlek Mojica, LAC Communications and Engagement Officer, Access Now
• Disha Ravi, Climate justice activist, Fridays for the Future India
• Henry Peck, Campaigner on Digital Threats, Global Witness
• Lia Hérnandez, Board of Directors, IPANDETEC
• Jenny Galindo, Associated Researcher, IPANDETEC