The theme selected for the first Geneva Dialogue, held in Geneva in September 2021, was freedom of expression. As a priority area for UNESCO, considerable efforts have been undertaken to ensure that freedom of expression, access to information, the safety of journalists, and media freedom remain firmly on the international agenda.

Within UNESCO, these issues are primarily led by the Communication and Information Sector, while also remaining highly relevant across the fields of science, culture, and education. The Dialogue highlighted these interconnections and the importance of an intersectoral approach within UNESCO.

Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.

Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

The event brought together representatives from the United Nations, NGOs, Special Rapporteurs, diplomats, and academics for an open and structured discussion organised around three segments:

• emerging issues and current challenges;
• existing human rights protection mechanisms;
• lessons learned from established partnerships.

A written and an audiovisual report of the Dialogue are available below.