STORY
The United Kingdom, alongside 13 other OSCE participating states, issued a joint statement today emphasising the critical importance of safeguarding media freedom across the OSCE region. Delivered by French Ambassador Fatène Benhabylès-Foeth on behalf of the informal Group of Friends on Safety of Journalists, the statement coincided with World Press Freedom Day commemorations.
The coalition highlighted escalating threats to journalists, including harassment, imprisonment, and even fatalities. They pointed to restrictive legislation and digital challenges—such as disinformation and AI misuse—as exacerbating factors undermining press freedom. The statement underscored the ongoing risks faced by journalists in conflict zones, notably citing the deaths and injuries of media personnel in Ukraine amid Russia’s continued aggression.
Reaffirming their commitment to human rights and media freedom, the participating states called for concrete actions to protect journalists and uphold democratic values throughout the OSCE area.