On 11 and 12 March 2024, Human Rights Ombudsman Peter Svetina participated at the Fundamental Rights Forum 2024 in Vienna, organised by the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA). It is one of the larger events on human rights in Europe, in which politicians and high officials, representatives of national human rights institutions, non-governmental organisations, business, the arts, and many others participate. “Such events are important because they enable the exchange of opinions and standpoints among leaders of many segments of society regarding the most pressing aspects of human rights, which pertain to climate change, artificial intelligence, and other advanced technologies as well as threats to democracy in Europe,” stresses Ombudsman Svetina.

The Forum was held under the title Rights in motion: Embracing human rights for Europe’s future, primarily in three crucial areas: the significance of the protection of democracy and the civil society space in the European Union, climate change, and digitalisation. Participants agreed that civil society is key for the functioning of democracy and strengthening of human rights culture as well as supporting the rule of law. They also pointed out the efforts for the social and environmental sustainability of Europe. The climate crisis is strongly connected with human rights since it influences a wider spectrum of rights and reveals global inequality and social injustice. “Private companies also have a duty to protect human rights and the environment. Namely, it all too frequently happens in business practices that questions of the respect of human rights and environmental protection remain unnoticed. Hence, it is high time that on the level of the European Union, solid legislation is adopted that will demand from companies due diligence about the respect of human rights and environmental protection standards, and require accountability from those responsible in companies, and ensure victims have efficient legal protection,” highlighted the Ombudsman.

At the Forum, great emphasis was also placed on the providing digitalisation in accordance with rights. They warned about the importance of inclusive digitalisation, where protection of privacy, the fight against online fraud and violence, the fact that technological companies will not monopolise means, and digital literacy are crucial factors. The institution of the Human Rights Ombudsman supports non-governmental organisations that raise awareness and educate on digital tools, and strives for the accessibility of information for everyone, including those who are not skilled in the use of digital technologies.