Full text of the statement:

The World Press Freedom Day is an opportunity to recall how essential it is for the Council of Europe and its member States to remain firmly committed to protecting journalists and safeguarding media freedom as core pillars of democratic societies.

This year’s commemoration comes at a particularly meaningful moment, following the annual conference of the Journalists Matter Campaign, recently held in Chișinău under the Moldovan Presidency of the Committee of Ministers. Organised under the mandate of the Steering Committee on Media and Information Society (CDMSI), the Campaign contributes to the broader objectives of the New Democratic Pact for Europe, by strengthening freedom of expression, media pluralism and the safety of journalists across member States.

The conference brought together policymakers, journalists, experts and civil society in a strong demonstration of shared commitment to strengthening journalists’ safety, quality journalism and democratic resilience across Europe. It was preceded by the 4th meeting of national focal points on the safety of journalists, which gathered representatives from across member States to take stock of progress achieved and to identify priorities for the next phase of the Campaign.

These exchanges confirmed both the significant advances made at national level and the need to further strengthen implementation, coordination and preventive approaches. Focal points have reaffirmed their commitment to the objectives of the Campaign, while also looking ahead to its future and legacy beyond 2027. In this context, particular emphasis was placed on maintaining and further developing the network of focal points, as well as working towards sustainable and effective national coordination mechanisms to ensure lasting impact.

At a time when journalists continue to face increasing pressures, including online harassment, disinformation and threats linked to the digital environment, it is more important than ever to move from reactive responses to systemic and preventive approaches, ensuring that journalists can continue to fulfil their essential role in democratic societies.

 Aikaterini Polyzou

Chair of the Steering Committee on Media and Information Society (CDMSI)