50h session of the Human Rights Council
High-level panel discussion on countering the negative impact of disinformation on the enjoyment and realization of human rights and on ensuring a human rights-based response
Intervention by the Nordic – Baltic States delivered by H.E. Dr. Mantas Adomėnas, Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania
28 June 2022
Thank you Mr. President.
I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Norway, Sweden and my own country Lithuania.
We thank the panellists for their valuable insights.
There is no doubt that the spread of disinformation has negative impact on the enjoyment of human rights and the functioning of democracies all over the world.
It is even more alarming that often disinformation is created, disseminated and amplified by undemocratic States and their proxies. While, the States are the main duty bearers when it comes to promoting and protecting human rights and strengthening the resilience of societies against manipulative attempts.
Massive disinformation campaign, carried out by Russia in their own country and globally as a part of their ongoing unprovoked aggression against Ukraine, is the most recent and clear-cut example of state-led information manipulation, aiming to mislead audiences, to deflect the blame from Russia’s responsibility and to justify its aggression.
We are convinced that there is no other way to counter this phenomenon than by raising societal awareness and promoting access to diverse and reliable information.
The Nordic-Baltic countries are actively promoting digital and media literacy education, digital inclusion, fact-checking and transparent technological solutions that empower individuals and build their resilience.
We, as States, are not alone in this effort. I am pleased to note the crucial role of our civil society and media in identifying, uncovering and debunking false information. These initiatives should be further encouraged.
How could we make sure that all the good practices are transformed into more unified global approach to countering disinformation in full compliance with the international human rights law?
I thank you.