Group 5.7: Freedom and security

“The man who trades freedom for security does not deserve nor will he ever receive either.” Freedom and security are both fundamental needs of mankind. But sometimes it seems as if security takes its toll on freedom. Is that true? The answer to this question is especially important to assess the development of security policy in the world. Does our life become more secure by monitoring, collecting data about people and using investigative methods, suspecting people on the basis of their physical or socio-demographic characteristics? Doesn’t this contradict the Universal Declaration of Human Rights? Is it legal to ignore fundamental rights for the sake of security? To what extent should the wish for security limit personal freedom? Is there such a thing as complete security? Do human rights apply to terrorists? This is the area of tension to be discussed by participants. They shall also get familiar with the institutions that check compliance with human rights and combat its violation. The group should find out and develop possibilities on how to fight for their rights, supported by these institutions and using also their own experiences. In the end the central question remains: How can we ensure both – freedom and security?

The introductory lecture will be held by Ricardo Cristof Remmert-Fontes