EU Reaffirms Commitment to Press Freedom Amid Rising Global Threats

The European Union has reaffirmed its firm commitment to press freedom, independence, and pluralism in a statement marking World Press Freedom Day on May 3.

Speaking on behalf of the EU and its Member States during the 1527th Council of Europe Committee of Ministers meeting, the EU highlighted alarming trends in global media freedom, noting that a record 124 journalists were killed in 2024 and 361 remained imprisoned by year-end.

The EU stressed that journalists must be protected, especially in conflict zones, and condemned all forms of violence, harassment, and legal intimidation faced by media workers.

This year’s theme—focused on the impact of artificial intelligence—drew attention to the urgent need for responsible technological development that upholds public interest journalism. The EU praised the adoption of the European Media Freedom Act in May 2024 as a critical step in safeguarding media independence, enhancing transparency, and preventing political interference.

The Union also underscored joint efforts with the Council of Europe, including initiatives targeting Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs) and journalist safety campaigns such as "Journalists Matter." Collaboration extends to AI and disinformation monitoring via platforms like EUvsDisinfo and the European Digital Media Observatory.

“The EU, alongside the Council of Europe, celebrates shared achievements and reaffirms our commitment to addressing the growing challenges facing independent journalism in Europe and beyond,” the statement concluded.

Albania, Armenia, the UK, Ukraine, and 11 other European countries aligned with the statement.

source: European Union