On this World Press Freedom Day, the European Union (EU) salutes the courage and determination of journalists and media workers who risk their lives daily to uphold the freedom of expression. Their commitment to delivering fact-based journalism plays a crucial role in safeguarding our democracies, exposing injustices, and enabling citizens to make informed decisions,” the EU declared.
“Every day, journalists and media workers bravely exercise their freedom of expression, often at great personal risk. Independent, fact-based journalism helps protect our democracies by exposing injustices, holding leaders to account and allowing citizens to make informed decisions,” the EU stated.
“In 2024, with elections taking place in over 60 countries around the globe, the work of journalists is more significant than ever. On this World Press Freedom Day, we honour their work and courage.”
The EU further emphasized, “As our eyes and ears on the ground, journalists must be protected at all times, everywhere. We firmly condemn all acts of violence, including threats, against journalists for exercising their profession, whether perpetrated by states, organised groups or individuals. There must be no impunity for such crimes, no matter where they take place.”
“Journalists and media workers reporting from armed conflict must be protected in accordance with international humanitarian law. We deplore the dramatic increase in the number of journalists killed or injured while reporting on the devastating consequences of war. Far too many journalists have lost their lives in recent months while bringing us the news from Gaza. Journalists also continue to be at risk on a daily basis as they report on Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, as well as from conflicts in Myanmar, Sudan and elsewhere.”
The EU expressed serious concern about the practice of denying independent media access to conflict zones, stating, “This is a way to control the information space and restrict the public’s access to factual and objective reporting.”
“Around the world, independent media faces a number of existential threats. More than ever, we must take decisive action to ensure that the media can operate in viable political, economic and legal conditions. At home, we have taken a significant step to this end with the adoption of the European Media Freedom Act. This landmark legislation seeks to enhance editorial freedom, protect journalistic sources and improve the transparency of media ownership in the EU.”
In conclusion, the EU affirmed its commitment, “We remain steadfast in our commitment to protect media freedom and pluralism across the world. In defending media freedom, we protect not just our right to know, but our very ability to shape a future guided by truth and accountability.”
