Joan Barata – European Debate on Platform Regulation, Child Protection and Freedom of Expression

The University of Palermo will host an online seminar on September 2, 2026, focusing on one of the most pressing issues in today’s digital environment: the balance between platform regulation, child protection and freedom of expression.

Titled “Platform Regulation, Child Protection and Freedom of Expression: The European Debate,” the event is organized by the Center for Studies on Freedom of Expression (CELE UP) at the University of Palermo’s School of Law.

The discussion will feature Joan Barata from the Faculty of Law of the University of Porto and Elena Lazar from the Faculty of Law of the University of Bucharest.

The seminar will explore the complex legal and democratic challenges arising from the growing influence of digital platforms and the need to protect vulnerable users, particularly children and teenagers. At the same time, efforts to regulate online platforms raise fundamental questions about the limits of government intervention and the protection of freedom of expression. Across Europe, lawmakers, technology platforms and civil society organizations are increasingly engaged in discussions about how to create a safer digital environment without undermining fundamental rights.

Free online event

The seminar will be held on Wednesday, September 2, at 10:00 a.m. Argentina time, via videoconference.

Participation is free and open to anyone interested in the topic, subject to prior registration. Participants will receive the access link from the University of Palermo.