EU Advances Media Freedom Funding Plans in Democracy Shield Initiative

Media freedom faces significant challenges globally, with calls for renewed political will and financial support to protect journalism and counter disinformation. In Europe, the Committee to Protect Journalists urges the European Commission to ensure that its European Democracy Shield initiative effectively enforces media reforms and safeguards press freedom amid ongoing threats and financial pressures. Similarly, in Bangladesh, political figures emphasize that true media freedom is unattainable without re-establishing democratic governance, highlighting media suppression under undemocratic regimes. In Pakistan, despite official praise for the media's role in combating disinformation, restrictive laws such as the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act hinder press freedom, prompting calls for reform to empower independent journalism. Meanwhile, changing media landscapes reflect a shift where content creation has become central to economic and social participation, underscoring the evolving role and influence of media in society. Together, these perspectives underscore the urgent need for concrete actions to protect and empower the media as a cornerstone of democracy worldwide.