According to President Karis, Estonia firmly considers internet access a fundamental right and emphasised that fundamental freedoms cannot be restricted in the fight against terrorism. “Anti-terrorist regulation cannot become a weapon for autocratic regimes to suppress freedom of speech and censor dissidents. Our duty is to ensure security and peace while also protecting liberties,” said President Karis.
“Ensuring people’s well-being is the first and most crucial step towards preventing violent extremism. In doing so, it is important to maintain access to factual information that helps us to navigate a world saturated with information,” said the Estonian head of state. He also stressed the particular need to pay attention to young people, for whom the internet is one of the main communication channels.
President Karis proceeded to draw attention to the impact of algorithms on virtual choices. “Algorithms are designed to distribute the most provocative content and unfortunately this often includes what reflects the darkest aspects of human nature,” said President Karis and stressed the importance of stopping such an artificial and dangerous method of consuming information by raising awareness.
Consequently, the Estonian president called attention to the necessity to find ways to cooperate with tech giants in order to facilitate efforts towards curbing radicalisation of online content. “Cooperation with democratic governments is necessary to help preserve a healthy balance between rules and liberal market economy while also respecting human rights,” said President Karis.
The leaders’ summit held in New York included President of France Emmanuel Macron, Prime Minister of New Zealand Jacinda Ardern, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau and many other heads of state from Europe and the rest of the world. The meeting also featured representatives of international corporations such as Meta, Microsoft, Mega, Amazon, Twitter, Google and many others.
The purpose of the initiative of France and New Zealand (Christchurch Call) is cooperation between the public and the technology sectors in preventing the distribution of terrorist or violent content. It was established after an attack on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand in March 2019, which the attacker broadcast live online.
