[03/05/11 09:15] On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, the Commissioner is publishing a new webpage where reports, articles, speeches, statements and recommendations concerning freedom of the media are collected for easy access. Worrying signals of repression and violations of media freedom can be observed in a number of European states. During country visits and continuous dialogue with national authorities, media professionals and civil society, the Commissioner provides advice on ways to improve media freedom and the protection of journalists. He also supports initiatives aimed at strengthening media professionalism and ethical journalism and the establishment of self-regulatory mechanisms. "Free, independent and pluralistic media based on freedom of information and expression is a core element of any functioning democracy. Freedom of the media is in fact essential for the protection of all other human rights," says the Commissioner.