Welcome to the European Parliamentary Research Service podcasts.

In this podcast, we'll talk about the European Media Freedom Act and how it can help protect media pluralism and independence in the EU, especially in the light of some worrying current trends. Stay with us.

Why is freedom? with us.

Why is freedom of the press so important in a democracy?

Well, there are several reasons, but let me give you just a few.

A free press uncovers the truth. It holds power accountable. It informs voters and helps shape public opinion. Media freedom and pluralism are also fundamental rights enshrined in EU law.

On a global scale, the EU remains a stronghold for free and independent media, but media

companies are confronted with falling revenues, increasing threats

to media freedom and pluralism, the emergence of very large online platforms and a patchwork

of different national rules. Furthermore, over the past three years, the rule of law reports,

prepared by the European Commission, as well as the Media Pluralism Monitor,

have pointed at the increasing politicisation of the media.

Poor protection of journalists in the face of increasing pressure and threats,

obscure media ownership operations, and the lack of independence of media regulators in several

EU countries.

Julie Meyerjack heads the Brussels Office of Reporters

Without Borders.

Press freedom has seriously deteriorated in the EU in recent years.

Journalists and media, they are increasingly subjective to many forms of intimidation and pressure,

like verbal and physical violence, online

harassment, judicial harassment, illegal surveillance, etc. It is absolutely key to protect the

independence of information from private interest and political interference.

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