Council of Europe Warns Press Freedom Faces Existential Threat
Valentina Grippo highlights systemic risks to global journalism and democratic stability.
1Unanimous Resolution Adopted
On September 30, the Council of Europe unanimously passed a resolution titled 'Growing threats to media pluralism and independence.' Presented by rapporteur Valentina Grippo, the report warns that journalism is under severe attack. The findings suggest that without immediate intervention, the current state of press freedom could collapse within a few years.
2Global Access Crisis
Valentina Grippo emphasized that only 25 percent of the global population currently has access to reliable information. This statistic serves as a stark indicator of the democratic decline linked to media suppression. Protecting journalists is no longer just a professional concern but a fundamental necessity for maintaining the integrity of modern democratic institutions.
3Five Pillars of Threat
The report identifies five specific areas of aggression against the press: the rise of information deserts, media ownership concentration, political interference, the unchecked use of artificial intelligence, and physical or moral threats to reporters. These factors collectively undermine the ability of media outlets to function as independent watchdogs in society today.
4Local Journalism Collapse
Information deserts represent a critical challenge where local newspapers have completely vanished from specific geographic regions. This loss of local coverage leaves communities without essential oversight of regional governance and public affairs. The absence of local reporting weakens the democratic fabric, making it difficult for citizens to remain informed about their immediate surroundings.
5Safety Risks in Italy
Guido D'Ubaldo, president of the Order of Journalists of Lazio, highlighted the severe risks faced by Italian reporters. Currently, 30 professionals live under police protection due to threats. Furthermore, 750 journalists reported being intimidated or threatened across Italy within the last year alone, illustrating the dangerous reality of investigative journalism today.
6Transparency in Ownership
The Council of Europe is demanding that member states establish a public, free, and open database detailing media ownership. This initiative aims to identify the ultimate beneficial owners of media companies, effectively eliminating the use of front men. The registry would cover all 46 member countries to ensure full corporate transparency.
7Artificial Intelligence Concerns
The resolution specifically highlights the increasing use of artificial intelligence as a major threat to media independence. While the report does not detail specific mechanisms, it categorizes AI alongside political interference as a primary driver of the current crisis. This suggests a growing concern regarding how automated systems influence information dissemination.
8Future of Democracy
The report is the culmination of two years of intensive analysis and public hearings. By addressing the structural vulnerabilities of the media landscape, the Council of Europe aims to reverse the trend of declining press freedom. The success of these measures will determine the future viability of journalism as a democratic pillar.