Attacks on journalists reporting on the arrival of migrants in Greece is not only an attack on the right to freedom of expression, but a restriction of citizens’ access and right to information.
This statement was originally published on freepressunlimited.org on 4 March 2020.
Physical attacks, online harassment and censorship: In recent days, media freedom organisations have shed light on threats against journalists reporting on the arrival of migrants into Greece. These attacks are taking place in a context of violence against migrants and those supporting them, such as NGOs and self-organised groups. They restrict the ability of journalists to work safely and inform citizens about the humanitarian crisis taking place at the borders of the European Union (EU).
A safe environment is essential for journalists to perform their role as watchdogs of democracy. The current situation in Greece is symptomatic of the severe threats to press freedom witnessed by media freedom organisations within the EU. It does not only have an harmful impact on journalists’ working conditions, but also restricts citizens’ access and right to information.
We urge the EU and Member States to:
- Take swift action to create a safe environment to protect journalists, freelancers and bloggers reporting on the current situation at the Greek-Turkish border, Lesbos Island, and other crossing points,
- Publicly condemn the restrictions to press freedom and human rights violations taking place in the context of the humanitarian crisis in Greece,
- Ensure that those responsible for the recent attacks against journalists, freelancers and bloggers are identified and prosecuted,
- Continue to fight disinformation and hate speech targeting migrants and asylum seekers, contributing to fueling the tensions at the crossing points.
Signatory organisations
Alliance Internationale des Journalistes
Association of European Journalists (AEJ)
AMARC Europe
European Centre for Press & Media Freedom (ECPMF)
European Federation of Journalists (EFJ)
Free Press Unlimited
Global Forum for Media Development (GFMD)
IFEX
International Press Institute (IPI)
PEN International
