By: Spain

The Delegation from Spain would like to express its concern for the recent passing of resolution 1/2 in GA3. This Resolution focuses heavily on the spread of misinformation, which appears out of place under our committee’s topic of “the safety of journalists and the issue of impunity.” Specifically, Spain is troubled by clauses 1, 3, and subpoint e of clause 4. In these, GA 3 “Supports” and “Advocates for” member states to address “those who seek to spread harmful and dangerous misinformation,” citing “the spread of false statements with malicious intent” as their definition for misinformation. This resolution is also lacking in requests of third party involvement, suggesting that involvement of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights need only involve itself in protecting journalists when requested by Member States. It is Spain’s opinion that these clauses and this definition give Member States too much power to mistreat journalists who may write against them under the guise of stopping the spread of misinformation. We understand that misinformation does exist and is a serious concern for many of our fellow delegates, but we see this resolution as a detriment to our committee’s larger goal of ensuring the safety and impunity of journalists. We are concerned that this resolution will contribute to the erosion of free speech in regions it is most needed.