Index calls for stronger action to protect media freedom

NEWS

Index on Censorship welcomes the discussion on media freedom that took place during the International Media Freedom Seminar.

By Index on Censorship

11 Sep 19

Campaigns -- Featured | Statements

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Index on Censorship welcomes the discussion on media freedom that took place during the International Media Freedom Seminar, which was hosted by the British Group of the Interparliamentary Union (BGIPU) in London between 9-11 September.

The seminar consisted of 8 sessions and more than 30 speakers, including Index’s head of advocacy, Joy Hyvarinen.

Parliamentarians from thirteen countries heard from panellists about the rise in cross-border threats against journalists, about countering fake news, and about the need to develop and implement regional and national instruments, including action plans and platforms for the protection of journalism and safety of journalists (such as the Council of Europe platform).

“During the seminar, we repeatedly heard that respect for media freedom is a ‘barometer’ for the state of its democracy – and it is painfully clear that both are in a downward spiral worldwide,” said Jessica Ní Mhainín, policy research and advocacy officer. “As important as the seminar discussion has been, the urgent state of press freedom calls for action. The onus is on every one of us to act.”

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At Index on Censorship, we believe everyone deserves the right to speak freely, challenge power and share ideas without fear. In a world where governments tighten control and algorithms distort the truth, defending those rights is more urgent than ever.

But free speech is not free. Instead we rely on readers like you to keep our journalism independent, our advocacy sharp and our support for writers, artists and dissidents strong.