Independent, fact-based journalism helps protect our democracies by exposing injustices, holding leaders to account and allowing citizens to make informed decisions. Journalists, who sometimes work at great personal risk, should be able to work freely and safely. This lies at the heart of EU values and democracies. This week, two pieces of EU legislation enter into force which will ensure greater protection of journalists and further support media freedom:

These initiatives are part of a European strategy for the media, building on theEuropean Democracy Action Planand theMedia and Audiovisual Action Plan. A recent study also shows that EU countries are making progressin implementing the Commissions Recommendation on the protection, safety and empowerment of journalists. The new rules will help ensure that journalists can carry out their work in a healthy media landscape.

For more information

European Media Freedom Act

Regulation establishing a common framework for media services in the internal market and amending Directive 2010/13/EU (European Media Freedom Act)

EU Directive on protecting persons who engage in public participation from manifestly unfounded claims or abusive court proceedings (Strategic lawsuits against public participation)

Media and digital culture

Media and pluralism

European Democracy Action Plan

Media and Audiovisual Action Plan

Study on measures to improve journalists safety

Video on strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs)

Link:

Protecting journalists and promoting media freedom: New rules enter into force - European Union