HRC: From Reflection to Reform: Innovative Solutions for Age-Old Problems

During the lobbying and merger period, delegates of the Human Rights Council are discussing two issues: the first one being “regulating protest governance frameworks to ensure the protection of fundamental freedoms for all,” and the second being “safeguarding freedom of expression by protecting journalists and media workers under restrictive regimes.” The first issue delves into the safety of protests for demonstrators and freedom of expression, while the second focuses on the safety of journalists in dangerous environments as they do their job of informing the public and seeking the truth.

Regarding the first issue, according to the International Bill of Human Rights, the term “fundamental freedoms” refers to basic human rights, including freedom of speech, and it was officially referenced by U.S. President Franklin Roosevelt in 1941. The issue focuses on the safety concerns surrounding protests, ensuring the safety of both protesters and those not involved, while simultaneously advocating for freedom of expression. Delegates will discuss solutions to these issues and find ways to allow both things to happen at once: safe protests and the protection of freedom of speech, which directly correlates with the second issue of protecting journalists.

According to Ms. Tegan Brink, the year 2025 was one of the most dangerous for journalists, as the lack of protection caused many to be harassed, killed, and endangered. According to the official United Nations website, more than 1,600 journalists have been killed since 1993. Additionally, many more have been attacked by protest demonstrators, particularly against women journalists. With the UN crediting journalism as an “essential but dangerous job,” the protection of journalists is not only a human right of freedom of expression, but a necessity for information to continue to be accessible worldwide. Delegates will discuss the implications of violence against journalists on the human right of freedom of expression as they work to resolve the issue. 

In this JOMUN XXIV conference, the Human Rights Council is focusing on issues surrounding free speech and the distribution of information that typically get overlooked. Different perspectives from the various delegates will allow for meaningful debate, discussion, collaboration, and connection, which are some of the core values of JOMUN.