Speech Regulation Impact examines the complex landscape of freedom of expression in Europe, especially concerning online speech, public assembly, and the roles of the European Union and its member states. The book navigates the challenges of balancing free speech with the need to mitigate online harms, like hate speech, and ensure public order. It highlights how the internet, a primary domain for public discourse, is shaped by content moderation policies and platform responsibilities. The study traces the evolution of free speech jurisprudence, from the European Convention on Human Rights to current efforts addressing online disinformation.
One intriguing fact is the critical divergence across member states in enforcing free speech rights, leading to inconsistencies in permissible expression. By analyzing legislative records, case law, and empirical data, the book offers insights into real-world practices. Structured in three parts, the book first introduces foundational principles, then investigates specific regulatory areas like online platforms and hate speech. Finally, through case studies, it explores implications for democratic participation, offering best practices and recommendations for policymakers.
This comparative analysis across European countries provides a nuanced understanding of how legal traditions shape the interpretation and enforcement of free speech laws, making it valuable for legal scholars, policymakers, and human rights advocates.
