Commission reaffirms commitment to uphold media freedom ahead of World Press Freedom Day

As we prepare to celebrate World Press Freedom Day tomorrow, the European Commission reaffirms its commitment to uphold media freedom and pluralism in the European Union and promote these principles across the world. Media freedom and pluralism are core principles that underpin thriving democracies.

As outlined in President von der Leyen's political guidelines for 2024-2029, the Commission is ensuring that the implementation of the European Media Freedom Act is well on track. The Commission stands by journalists and strongly supports them in their ability to carry out their work safely and securely. It is boosting its support and protection for independent media and journalists, clamping down on pressure and unethical behaviour that threatens their work.

Henna Virkkunen, Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy said: “We are dedicated to ensuring that Europe remains a beacon for media freedom and pluralism. On World Press Freedom Day, we are not just celebrating a concept, we are making a concrete commitment to democracy. The safety of journalists is at stake. Last year, the number of violent incidents against journalist increased with several losing their lives around the world. This is unacceptab.”

Michael McGrath, Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law, and Consumer Protection, said: “Journalists are the watchdogs of our democracy. Their fearless pursuit of facts and transparency empowers us all. On this World Press Freedom Day, we must support their critical work and protect their independence - for our rights, for our freedoms, for our values”.

The European Media Freedom Act will better protect media pluralism and independence, and enhance transparency and fairness. Most of its rules will become applicable across all EU Member States from 8 August. The new European Board for Media Services is up and running since February, fostering collaboration among national media authorities.

In 2021, the Commission issued a Recommendation on the Protection, Safety and Empowerment of Journalists aiming to ensure safer working conditions for all media professionals, free from fear and intimidation - whether online or offline - with a particular attention to female journalists. Additionally, the Commission adopted rules against Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs), giving journalists and human rights defenders the tools to fight back against abusive court proceedings. The Commission also continues to monitor developments related to media freedom and pluralism in all Member States in the context of the annual Rule of Law Report. Media freedom will also be an important part of the upcoming European Democracy Shield.

High Representative/Vice-President Kaja Kallas will also issue a statement on behalf of the EU today, which will be available online.

(For more information: Markus Lammert – Tel.: +32 2 296 75 33; Yuliya Matsyk - Tel.: +32 2 226 27 16; Cristina Torres Castillo — Tel.: + 32 2 299 06 79)