European Network of Cultural Centres (ENCC)

Free Speech Space – Network of memorable places commemorating the resistance against the totalitarian suppression of freedom of speech and free access to information

Post Bellum, z.ú.
Czech Republic
Free_Speech_Space_Infographic
Free Speech Space is Czech national network of 14 places across the Czech lands that commemorate local acts of resistance against the communist regime’s suppression of freedom of speech and access to information. Selected in close cooperation with local communities, the sites highlight diverse stories of civic courage and democratic values. The project connects historical memory with contemporary debates on media freedom, disinformation, and the protection of fundamental rights in Europe. In 2026, the network was awarded the prestigious European Heritage label.
Free Speech Space is a network of 14 historically significant sites across all regions of the Czech Republic commemorating resistance to the suppression of freedom of speech and access to information under 20th-century totalitarian regimes. The sites include places linked to independent broadcasting, samizdat publishing, signal jamming and the struggle for uncensored media during events such as the 1968 invasion. Together they connect regional stories of civic courage with the wider European history of defending fundamental rights. Through memorial interpretation, education, cultural activities and digital tools, the project highlights free expression as a cornerstone of democracy and European integration while encouraging reflection on contemporary challenges such as disinformation and threats to media freedom.The sites were selected through historical research and archival investigation in close cooperation with local communities. The project follows the principles of community-based tourism, supporting active community involvement, respect for local heritage and sustainable development of places linked to the memory of the struggle for free expression and access to information.

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