News Media Europe’s submission to the European Commission’s consultation on the European Democracy Shield can be accessed through this link.

Independent journalism is fundamental to Europe’s democracy and security and must be at the heart of the EUDS strategy. Journalism acts as a crucial barrier to disinformation, fosters community engagement, and serves as a watchdog for democracy. While the consultation includes relevant elements, we feel it lacks a clear understanding of the importance of a strong European media sector, notably omitting critical discussions on financially sustainable independent media services and editorial self-regulation.

A significant challenge we highlight is the financial decline of the press sector, largely driven by social networks and platforms controlling digital value chains and advertising revenues. This economic vulnerability directly impacts democratic health, as economic viability is essential for freedom.

Our recommendations for the EUDS also include fostering effective editorial self-regulation, promoting widespread media education and information literacy campaigns, and redirecting advertising investments towards editorial media through measures like tax incentives. It also stresses the vital need to take the safety of news media professionals seriously, calling for the swift transposition of the anti-SLAPP directive and implementation of recommendations against threats and attacks on journalists.

Contact: Aurore Raoux