News International

Concerns about freedom of speech

April 5, 2025
Rita Bonnici

Across Europe, concerns about freedom of speech are intensifying, driven by social media discussions and ongoing debates over censorship. Posts on X highlight fears of democratic erosion, pointing to incidents like UK police visiting individuals over social media posts, proposals in Germany to ban the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, and Romania’s courts blocking a presidential candidate. These cases fuel a broader unease about free expression that resonates with many Europeans.

In the UK, the government’s approach to online speech has drawn scrutiny. A 2024 report from The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression noted police issuing warnings like “Think before you post” amid riots following a knife attack in Southport, raising fears of chilled expression.

Christian preacher Dia Moodley successfully challenged Avon and Somerset Police after they arrested him in March 2024 for comments on Islam and gender during a street sermon, holding him for 13 hours and destroying his signs. The police later admitted their actions were “disproportionate” and issued an apology, as reported.

In Germany, calls to ban the AfD have sparked controversy. A 2024 BBC report highlighted how revelations of AfD figures discussing mass deportations prompted some politicians to push for a ban, arguing the party threatens the constitutional order.
A political analyst Jacob Mchangama  in 2023 stated that such a step might alienate voters and undermine democracy by fueling the party’s narrative of victimhood. Germany’s stringent laws on online speech have also faced backlash, with reports in February 2025 noting that posting hate speech can lead to police raids, a practice some view as excessive surveillance reminiscent of past authoritarian measures.

 In Romania, the Constitutional Court’s decision to bar far-right candidate Calin Georgescu from the May 2025 presidential election rerun has ignited protests. The ban, upheld on March 11 after the 2024 election was annulled over alleged Russian interference, is seen by critics as politically motivated, aligning with broader European tensions.

The EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA) is designed to make tech companies more responsible for harmful online content. It gives regulators the power to fine platforms up to 6% of their global revenue if they don’t follow the rules. Critics, however, say it might go too far and risk limiting free speech. The EU is still working to strike a balance between protecting users and upholding democratic freedoms.

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