IZAZOVI SLOBODE POLITIČKOG GOVORA U DIGITALNOM DOBU DEMOKRATIJE

Abstract

The author analyzes the complex relationship between freedom of expression and political speech, with particular attention to the status and role of members of parliament in a democratic society. Freedom of expression is one of the fundamental pillars of democracy, but it is not absolute—especially when it comes into conflict with other constitutionally protected values such as dignity, security, and public order.The paper specifically examines Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights and the case law of the European Court of Human Rights, highlighting the limits of permissible speech, particularly in the context of hate speech, incitement to violence, and discrimination. It also discusses the role of domestic legal mechanisms in Serbia—constitutional, criminal, and media-related—in regulating political expression, with an emphasis on the importance of a balanced approach that simultaneously protects freedom of political speech, prevents abuse, and ensures consistent application of the principles of democratic pluralism and the rule of law, in order to secure free but responsible political action.