In a statement issued to coincide with World Press Freedom Day on 3 May, Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Marija Pejčinović Burić, emphasized the importance of protecting journalists in the lead up to the 2024 elections. She highlighted the crucial role that journalists and quality media play in providing citizens with access to diverse and reliable information, allowing them to make informed decisions when exercising their democratic rights.
Without a free and independent media, democracy itself is at risk of deteriorating. Burić stressed that journalists are a cornerstone of democracy, and their freedom must be protected to safeguard the democratic process. However, she also highlighted the challenges that journalists face in carrying out their work, including physical attacks, intimidation, restrictive legislation, and legal harassment.
The Secretary General called on Council of Europe member states to implement the Committee of Ministers Recommendation on the protection of journalism and safety of journalists and to develop national action plans as part of the Council of Europe Campaign “Journalists Matter”. She commended those member states that have begun to take steps towards protecting journalists and ensuring their safety.
Burić specifically addressed the issue of abusive lawsuits aimed at silencing journalists and media organizations. She urged member states to adopt legislative frameworks that allow for open and safe participation in public debate without the fear of retaliatory legal action. In particular, she called for the implementation of the Committee of Ministers Recommendation on the use of strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs) to prevent such abusive practices.
Overall, Burić emphasized the need for governments to prioritize the protection of journalists and media workers in order to uphold democracy and ensure a free and fair electoral process in 2024.
