Students from Syracuse University learn about Media Freedom in Europe

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 Students from Syracuse University learn about Media Freedom in Europe

On 20 March 2023, Patrick Penninckx, Head of the Information Society Department of the Council of Europe, met with students from Syracuse University Strasbourg Programme. His presentation focused on the current state of Media Freedom in Europe and the Council of Europe efforts to enhance journalist safety. Drawing on recent examples of disinformation and misinformation following the aggression of Russia on Ukraine and the attacks on journalism safety and freedom as reported on the Safety of Journalist Platform he underlined the importance of journalism as a guardian of democracy and freedom of expression. Nevertheless, at the end of 2022, there were 127 journalists in prison in Europe.

Participants also had a chance to learn about the Council of Europe responses to these challenges, namely assistance and cooperation with member States in changing their policies, legislation and practices to effectively protect and promote freedom of expression and media freedom in line with the adopted standards. As a corollary, the Council of Europe will launch in October 2023 a continent-wide campaign for the safety of journalists aimed at increasing the safety and security of journalists and other media actors in all situations.

Strasbourg 20 March 2023

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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