Defending the conditions in which journalism can be practised freely and independently – the Council of Europe
Young journalist committed to making sense of the world of disinformation were yesterday exposed to the harsh realities of a career in news. From across Europe, nearly 50 journalism students heard from policymakers, experienced news reporters and so-called ‘newsfluencers’ who work at the intersection of news-driven content-making, social media opinion and online self-promotion.
On perceived public attitudes towards journalists, the warning was starkly delivered by Rodica Ciochina, manager of the Journalism Matter Campaign of the Council of Europe (coE).
‘Public hostility towards journalists does not emerge in a vacuum. It can be fuelled by polarisation, disinformation and rhetoric that portrays independent journalism as an enemy rather than an essential democratic function. And defending journalists’ safety does not mean defending every article or every editorial choice. It means defending the conditions in which journalism can be practised freely and independently.’
Reliable journalism is needed more than ever
Addressing the audience at the Palais de l’Europe, Ciochina added: ‘This is particularly important in an environment where disinformation spreads rapidly and reliable journalism is needed more than ever.’
‘We often ask what journalists can do for democracy. But perhaps we should also ask what we, as citizens, can do to ensure that independent journalism can continue to fulfil its role. You do not need to be a journalist to stand up for journalism. You can start by questioning what you share, seeking reliable sources, refusing to normalise intimidation and recognising the value of those who investigate and report in the public interest.’
Democracy needs people who can ask difficult questions
Ciochina concluded: ‘Journalists matter not because they should always be believed, but because democracy needs people who can ask difficult questions, verify facts and hold power accountable — without fear. And protecting that freedom is a responsibility we all share.
The two-day conference, Youth Facing Disinformation – Why Journalists Matter, is a joint initiative of the Council of Europe and the Monegasque Presidency of the Committee of Ministers. It runs under the Council’s Journalists Matter campaign for the safety of journalists (2023–2027) and closes Monaco’s Presidency.
The campaign has driven national effort in this area amongst the CoE’s 46 member states. Involving governments, law enforcement authorities, prosecutors, media organisations and civil society, there are today, 28 national committees or dialogue platforms, 42 appointed individuals acting as national focal points and 13 national action plans, with more in the pipeline.
