Source: European Parliament
Freedom of expression, media freedom and pluralism are essential as checks and balances of healthy democracies. These rights also form an essential part of the rule of law and are at the core of our democratic values. Article 11 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union guarantees the rights to freedom of expression and information.
Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) is a well-established, independent media organisation, broadcasting news in 27 languages across 23 countries. It provides independent reporting to many countries where media freedom is threatened.
Hence, the Commission is closely monitoring the impacts of the United States decisions concerning the future of RFE/RL, including for its journalists around the world and at its headquarters in Prague, and is working with partners to explore possible solutions.
The Commission is fully committed to supporting and protecting independent media and journalists through legislative initiatives such as the European Media Freedom Act[1] and a range of support actions, notably through Creative Europe and Multimedia Actions[2]. Currently, an amount of approximately EUR 40-50 million is dedicated annually to supporting the news media sector.