Freedom of expression is one of the foundations of a democratic and pluralistic society. Its corollary is access for everyone to accurate, reliable and timely information, a key precondition for informed public participation. The role of the media and journalists in seeking out, verifying and distributing information is crucial.

States have the responsibility to provide adequate safeguards, both through law and practice, for the effective enjoyment and protection of freedom of expression, including by creating an enabling environment for free and responsible media to flourish and play their essential role in democracy.

The Council of Europe is well placed to help prevent and address the threats to the exercise of the rights and freedoms guaranteed by Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights, both offline and in the online environment.

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Back First meeting of the Committee of experts on media pluralism and transparency of media ownership - MSI-MED

First meeting of the Committee of experts on media pluralism and transparency of media ownership  -  MSI-MED

The MSI-MED met for the 1st time on 22 and 23 March 2016 in Strasbourg and mapped out its work plan for the course of its mandate. According to its expected deliveries, it will work on a draft recommendation on media pluralism and transparency of media ownership and a feasibility study on a possible standard-setting instrument on gender equality in the context of media coverage of elections, on the one hand, and the use of the Internet in elections, on the other hand.

It also elected its chair (Ms Helena Mandić - Director of Broadcasting - Communications Regulatory Agency - Bosnia and Herzegovina) and its Vice-Chair (Mr Evangelos Valmas - Head of Department for Audiovisual Media and Archives - Secretariat General of Information and Communication - Greece).  

Strasbourg 22-23 March 2016
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In time of conflict



The right to freedom of expression and information constitutes one of the essential foundations of democratic society. In conflict situations and wars, the role of the media is critical in providing the public with accurate and timely information. Trustworthy news and images can contribute to the protection of civilians and conflict prevention, bring to the attention of the international community the horrors and reality of conflict and expose violations of human rights and international humanitarian law.

 Visit the "Freedom of expression in times of conflict" webpage

Journalists Matter Campaign

Journalists Matter, the Council of Europe Campaign for the Safety of Journalists is an initiative aiming to promote press freedom and protect journalists from violence, threats, and harassment while performing their duties. As part of this Campaign, the Council of Europe is inviting everyone to support their cause, take action for their enhanced protection, while raising awareness about the importance of safeguarding journalists and their right to report the news freely and without fear. 

 Visit the "Campaign for the Safety of Journalists" webpage

"Everyone has the right to freedom of expression"

Art. 10 European Convention on Human Rights

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