World Press Freedom Day 2024

A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the face of the environmental crisis

On the occasion of the 2024 World Press Freedom Day with a focus on the importance of journalism and freedom of expression in the context of the current global environmental crisis, European press publishers celebrate this fundamental right, key to modern democracies.

Press freedom and freedom of expression are the essential precondition to press publishers’ work, including in providing professional information on environmental issues to EU citizens, raising awareness and overall enriching the public debate. In doing so, the free press contributes to the efforts of the green transition. As recognised in the recently adopted European Media Freedom Act, “the media sector is part of the cultural and creative industries ecosystem, […] key for an inclusive and sustainable recovery and for the twin (green and digital) transition of the EU economy”.

Against this background, it is essential to empower journalism and the media to fulfil their role. Professional, accurate and comprehensive information is essential for our societies, including for the success of the green transition: journalists and press publications must therefore never be subject to threats by any political actors or private entities for doing their job. It is crucial that journalists have access to all the necessary sources and that EU and national laws effectively prevent abusive and disproportionate proceedings (SLAPPs) and sentences for alleged defamation or other (often criminal) charges. At the same time, professional editorial content covering all aspects of citizens’ lives, including on environmental matters, must be accessible to all citizens and distributed both online and offline with no undue restriction of said content motivated by political or economic reasons or based on online platforms’ terms and conditions.

Ilias Konteas, EMMA & ENPA Executive Director, said: “Press freedom plays an important role in supporting the green transition – a vital challenge of our times. We are proud to play a part, but the efforts of the free press must be supported by ensuring a legislative and economic framework that allows the free press to thrive and remain financially sustainable both online and offline.”