• Global press freedom is at an unprecedented low, with concerning declines noted in various regions due to economic instability, political interference, and physical threats.
• The European Union is taking steps to safeguard media freedom through the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA), but challenges remain, particularly in Southern and Eastern Europe.
• The United States has experienced a significant decline in press freedom under President Trump's administration, attributed to funding cuts and weaponization of institutions.

World Press Freedom Day highlights the increasing threats to journalists and media organizations worldwide. Reports indicate a concerning decline in press freedom due to economic pressures, political interference, and violence against journalists. Several organizations, including Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the European Parliament, have issued statements emphasizing the vital role of independent journalism in safeguarding democracy and condemning actions that undermine media freedom. The reports underscore the urgent need for measures to protect journalists, promote media pluralism, and combat disinformation.

• What: Worldwide decline in press freedom due to economic pressures, political interference (including surveillance), and violence against journalists. The European Media Freedom Act (EMFA) aims to address these challenges within the EU. Concerns rise over US press freedom under Trump due to weaponization of institutions and media funding cuts. Journalists in Gaza face dire circumstances amidst conflict.
• Who: Key actors include journalists, media organizations, European Parliament, President Roberta Metsola, Vice-President Sabine Verheyen, Culture and Education Committee Chair Nela Riehl, Reporters Without Borders (RSF), President Donald Trump, Javier Milei, Kamala Harris.
• When: World Press Freedom Day (May 3rd). EMFA provisions to be fully applicable by August 8, 2025. US press freedom decline noted in 2024 and 2025. RSF index published annually.
• Where: Global, with specific focus on Europe, the United States, and the Middle East (Gaza). Nordic and Baltic countries are leading in press freedom, while Southern and Eastern Europe lag behind. The US ranked 57th globally.

The reports consistently point to a concerning global trend of declining press freedom. Economic pressures and the concentration of media ownership are significant factors, as is the weaponization of institutions against the media in some countries. While the EU is taking steps to address these challenges through legislation like the EMFA, the effectiveness of these measures will depend on their enforcement. The situation in the United States, as described by RSF, is particularly alarming, representing a shift away from traditional protections for the press. The physical dangers faced by journalists in conflict zones like Gaza highlight the extreme risks involved in reporting from these areas. The disparity between Northern and Southern/Eastern Europe also warrants attention, suggesting systemic issues within the EU itself.

A free press is the best shield for democracy. Journalists must be free to report without fear of censorship, intimidation, or retaliation. The European Parliament will always defend and stand up for media and press freedom – not only on World Press Freedom Day, but every day.

On this World Press Freedom Day, we have to remember the importance of standing firm in defending media freedom. Troubling global trends remind us that indifference is not an option. Even in Europe, we must remain vigilant in upholding our democratic values. Press freedom is the backbone of democracy – defending it means protecting our freedoms and the values we hold dear.

In the United States, Donald Trump's second term as president has led to an alarming deterioration in press freedom, indicative of an authoritarian shift in government. His administration has weaponised institutions, cut support for independent media, and sidelined reporters.

World Press Freedom Day serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges to independent journalism around the globe. While Europe is taking steps to protect media freedom, significant threats remain, particularly in regions facing economic instability, political interference, and armed conflict. The decline in press freedom in the United States is a cause for concern, and the safety of journalists in conflict zones requires immediate attention. Continued vigilance and proactive measures are essential to safeguard the vital role of the press in democratic societies.