Journalist safety campaign: improving cooperation between journalists and police at public events

Freedom of expression is one of the foundations of a democratic and pluralistic society. Its corollary is access for everyone to accurate, reliable and timely information, a key precondition for informed public participation. The role of the media and journalists in seeking out, verifying and distributing information is crucial.

States have the responsibility to provide adequate safeguards, both through law and practice, for the effective enjoyment and protection of freedom of expression, including by creating an enabling environment for free and responsible media to flourish and play their essential role in democracy.

The Council of Europe is well placed to help prevent and address the threats to the exercise of the rights and freedoms guaranteed by Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights, both offline and in the online environment.

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Back Journalist safety campaign: improving cooperation between journalists and police at public events

As part of the Council of Europe's Campaign for the Safety of Journalists "Journalists Matter", a special seminar in Strasbourg is bringing together representatives of governments, police forces, press freedom organisations and associations of journalists to discuss the role of the police in ensuring the safety of journalists.

Participants at the two-day event (26-27 September) will seek to identify best practices for improving cooperation between journalists and the police on safety issues, especially at public protests and other events where journalists may be exposed to risks. The seminar will encourage participants to explore concrete actions to protect journalists, thereby implementing the Council of Europe Committee of Ministers 2016 Recommendation to member states on the protection of journalism and safety of journalists and other media actors.

The event is supported by Germany, to mark the 75th anniversary of the Council of Europe, which coincides with the 75th anniversary of the Fundamental Law of the Federal Republic of Germany and the founding of the German Council of the European Movement.

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Strasbourg, France 26 September 2024

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In time of conflict

The right to freedom of expression and information constitutes one of the essential foundations of democratic society. In conflict situations and wars, the role of the media is critical in providing the public with accurate and timely information. Trustworthy news and images can contribute to the protection of civilians and conflict prevention, bring to the attention of the international community the horrors and reality of conflict and expose violations of human rights and international humanitarian law.

Visit the "Freedom of expression in times of conflict" webpage

Journalists Matter Campaign

Journalists Matter, the Council of Europe Campaign for the Safety of Journalists is an initiative aiming to promote press freedom and protect journalists from violence, threats, and harassment while performing their duties. As part of this Campaign, the Council of Europe is inviting everyone to support their cause, take action for their enhanced protection, while raising awareness about the importance of safeguarding journalists and their right to report the news freely and without fear.

Visit the "Campaign for the Safety of Journalists" webpage