Still reporting without fear?

Venue: Press Club Brussels Europe, Rue Froissart 95, 1040 Brussels

The ability of journalists to report freely is a vital part of democracy. However, it is becoming more difficult and dangerous for journalists to do their work. Journalists are facing not only an increasing politicisation of the media but also digital surveillance and spyware, censorship, insults, intimidation and in some cases even murder. Safeguarding media freedom and ensuring the protection of journalists is paramount. The European Union has been addressing these critical issues through initiatives like the European Media Freedom Act and the anti-SLAPP directive.

What new challenges is Europe facing with regards to media freedom and the protection of journalists? How can journalists and their work be strengthened in this new media environment? And what role do the European Media Freedom Act and anti-SLAPP directive play in this regard? Together with journalists and key EU decision-makers, we look forward to discussing these issues.

Programme

15:30 Registration & coffee

16:00 Welcome remarks by Roderick Kefferpütz, Director, Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union

16:05 Panel discussion with:

• Charlotte Clavreul, Chief Executive Director, Free Press Fund, Paris
• Marie Frenay, Policy Coordinator at the Cabinet of Vĕra Jourová, European Commission Vice-President for Values and Transparency
• Diana Riba i Giner MEP (Greens/EFA) , Shadow Rapporteur for the European Media Freedom Act
• Agnieszka Wiśniewska, Editor-in-chief of Krytyka Polityczna, Warsaw

Moderation: Michalis Goudis, Director, Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung Thessaloniki

17:00 Discussion and Q&A

17:45 Networking reception

For any question, please contact Louise Mollenhauer.