The European Centre for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF), together with over 100 partner organizations, is urging the EU to make strategic, long-term investments in independent and public-interest media as part of the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework. Media freedom is not just a principle—it is the cornerstone of Europe’s democratic resilience. ECPMF highlights the need for sustainable funding, support for journalists, media pluralism, fact-checking, and reforms that ensure editorial independence while addressing market and digital platform challenges. Strengthening Europe’s media infrastructure safeguards informed public debate, reinforces democratic values, and fosters a resilient, transparent information ecosystem. As Europe’s democratic resilience depends on independent, trustworthy media, this goes beyond funding: strong, pluralistic media underpin evidence-based decision-making, protect democratic norms, and enhance Europe’s capacity to respond to hybrid threats.
This initiative underlines what institutions like the ECPMF stand for every day: protecting journalists, defending free expression, and safeguarding democracy against erosion and manipulation. As Europe faces growing hybrid threats, investing in free media is ultimately an investment in stability, transparency, and democratic security.
To know more, read the full story on the ECPMF website.