On the freedom of speech
05 October 2026 12:00 – 13:00 University Library – Main Library, Örebro Campus
To mark Banned Books Week and World Teachers’ Day, you are invited to a panel discussion on freedom of expression and freedom of the press, censorship, and free access to literature.
Banned Books Week is an international initiative that highlights and safeguards freedom of expression and defends everyone’s right to read. Today, this right is increasingly under threat as authoritarian forces gain ground in society, seeking to censor or ban books.
As Swedish PEN writes:
Books are one of the most important ways of spreading thoughts and ideas. When a book is banned, the thoughts and ideas it conveys are banned as well.
Libraries, schools and universities in Sweden are also facing pressure. Teachers therefore play a crucial role in defending freedom of expression and students’ right to think critically. World Teachers’ Day, established by UNESCO and coinciding with Banned Books Week, celebrates teachers and the vital role they play in providing quality education.
Panel participants:
Sanela Bajramović, Senior Lecturer in Education, Örebro University
Magnus Kristoffersson, Associate Professor of Law, Örebro University
Daniel McKay, Librarian, Örebro University
Albina Olausson, President of Örebro Student Union
Moderator:
Ulrica Elfgren, Library Director, Örebro University
The panel discussion will be held in English.
A light vegetarian lunch will be served from 11:30. Places for lunch are limited, so advance registration is required. The registration deadline is 24 September.
In connection with the seminar, you can also visit an exhibition featuring banned books from around the world.