HRC62 - Iceland GC - A/HRC/62/L.9: Countering the negative impact of disinformation

Human Rights Council – 62nd Session
General Comment on draft resolution L.9
Role of States in countering the negative impact of disinformation on the enjoyment and realization of human rights
Statement by Iceland
6 July 2026

President,

Iceland thanks the core group and Ukraine for their work on draft resolution L.9 on the role of states in countering the negative impact of disinformation on the enjoyment and realization of human rights.

Disinformation can undermine the enjoyment of human rights. Its harmful effects on democratic participation and public trust are well documented, particularly where access to accurate and reliable information is limited.

Disinformation campaigns often weaponize narratives around gender roles, gender equality and sexual orientation to polarise public debate and spread fear. Further, women and girls continue to be disproportionately affected by online violence, including abuse and harassment.

As we address these challenges, efforts to counter disinformation must remain firmly grounded in international human rights law, and should protect, rather than restrict freedom of expression and media freedom. Iceland therefore welcomes the resolution’s emphasis on human rights-based and multidimensional approaches, including the promotion of media and information literacy and access to reliable information.

Iceland joins consensus on this resolution and encourages other members to do the same.

I thank you.