[05/11/07 14:30] In a speech delivered today at the International Federation of Journalists in Brussels on the occasion of the European Day of Action for Journalists Rights, Commissioner Hammarberg stressed that even in Europe of today "freedom of expression is not fully protected" and called for a decriminalisation of defamation. "It is a major problem that defamation is still criminalised in several parts of Europe" he said. "The mere existence of criminal defamation laws could intimidate journalists and cause an unfortunate self-censorship".
The Commissioner put an emphasis on the positive role self-regulatory mechanisms within the media could play in ensuring a more ethical journalism and he also reminded that, although media problems are more acute in transition countries, State and business domination over the media sector is widespread, making it essential to discuss this issue all over Europe.
