30/04/2026 Culture, Science, Education and Media
On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day (3 May 2026), PACE's General Rapporteur on media freedom and the safety of journalists, Valentina Grippo (Italy, ALDE), has issued a warning about the critical situation of press freedom and media pluralism in Europe, highlighting the numerous threats outlined in the annual assessment by the partner organisations of the Council of Europe's Safety of Journalists Platform.
“Russia's ongoing war of aggression towards Ukraine continues to pose the most significant threat to journalists across Europe. Furthermore, the war in Gaza has seen an exceptionally high number of journalists killed or injured, and the subsequent conflicts in Lebanon and Iran have increased these numbers. In that regard, I recall that war journalists are civilians and are protected as such under international law, and that targeting and killing journalists is a war crime.
Beyond conflict zones, journalists in Europe often face online and physical threats and attacks for simply doing their jobs, and women journalists are disproportionately targeted by intimidation and harassment.
Public service media is under pressure in a number of European countries, and there is an increasing use of media capture by illiberal regimes to muzzle the independent press.
A glimmer of hope is found in various legislative norms adopted by some countries and the EU. Furthermore, the Council of Europe has launched initiatives that provide guidance and good practices. However, legislation alone is not sufficient; proper enforcement is also essential.
As we celebrate World Press Freedom Day, I urge policymakers and legislators to translate their commitments into tangible actions and adequate means, ensuring effective protection for journalists. This is crucial to avert any further deterioration of press freedom at a time when it is at a critical juncture.”