Minister Grlić Radman attends World Forum for Democracy: Spread of misinformation threatens trust in institutions, democratic processes

On Wednesday, November 6, 2024, Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlić Radman participated in the 12th World Forum for Democracy. This year's forum, held in Strasbourg, is titled Democracy and Diversity - Can We Transcend the Divides? Grlić Radman served as a keynote speaker in a panel discussion on "Unravelling the Web of Disinformation."

In his address, he emphasized that, in an era when information is more accessible than ever, the spread of misinformation poses a serious threat to trust in institutions and democratic processes. "Not only states but also interest groups spread false information, using new technologies like artificial intelligence to create and disseminate manipulative content," Grlić Radman warned, adding that only through joint international efforts, ethical management of artificial intelligence, and media literacy can we ensure an informed society and protect today's democratic values.

While in Strasbourg, Grlić Radman met with PACE President Theodoros Rousopoulos and CoE Secretary General Alain Berset. In his conversation with Rousopoulos, he discussed the need to protect core values-democracy, the rule of law, and human rights-emphasizing the importance of the Reykjavik Declaration and the European Convention on Human Rights. On this occasion, the minister also highlighted the importance of the Council of Europe's Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence, Human Rights, Democracy, and the Rule of Law. They further exchanged views on providing assistance to Ukraine, with Grlić Radman stressing that Croatia fully supports Ukraine's sovereignty and is committed to offering comprehensive assistance.

In discussions with Berset, Grlić Radman reiterated the need to safeguard fundamental values, emphasizing Croatia's support for the Council of Europe's efforts to assist Ukraine, including establishing a Damage Register and a Court for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine. During the meeting, the parties signed an agreement between Croatia and the Council of Europe on Croatia's financial contribution to the European Court of Human Rights.

Accompanied by a delegation in Strasbourg, Grlić Radman also noted that November 6 marks the anniversary of Croatia's accession to the Council of Europe. This year marks 28 years since Croatia joined this oldest European organization, whose role is to strengthen European unity and prosperity.

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