Freedom of expression is one of the foundations of a democratic and pluralistic society. Its corollary is access for everyone to accurate, reliable and timely information, a key precondition for informed public participation. The role of the media and journalists in seeking out, verifying and distributing information is crucial.

States have the responsibility to provide adequate safeguards, both through law and practice, for the effective enjoyment and protection of freedom of expression, including by creating an enabling environment for free and responsible media to flourish and play their essential role in democracy.

The Council of Europe is well placed to help prevent and address the threats to the exercise of the rights and freedoms guaranteed by Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights, both offline and in the online environment.

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Back Forcible removal of journalists during parliamentary debate breached their freedom of expression

Forcible removal of journalists during parliamentary debate breached their freedom of expression
Selmani and Others v. “the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia”

The case concerned the forcible removal of journalists from the national Parliament gallery where they were reporting on a parliamentary debate about approval of the State budget for 2013. During the debate a group of opposition MPs had started creating a disturbance in the parliamentary chamber, and had been ejected by security officers.

The applicants, accredited journalists, had refused to leave the gallery, a designated area for journalists, and ended up being forcibly removed by security. They brought proceedings before the Constitutional Court to complain about the incident, and contest the fact that there was no oral hearing before this court for them to challenge the facts as disputed between the parties.

The European Court of Human Rights held, unanimously, that there had been:
  • a violation of Article 6 (right to a fair hearing) of the European Convention on Human Rights on account of the Constitutional Court’s failure to hold an oral hearing, and
  • a violation of Article 10 (freedom of expression) of the European Convention on account of the applicants’ removal from the Parliament gallery by security.

More information:

Press Release

ECHR Judgement (9 February 2017)

Strasbourg 9 February 2017
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The right to freedom of expression and information constitutes one of the essential foundations of democratic society. In conflict situations and wars, the role of the media is critical in providing the public with accurate and timely information. Trustworthy news and images can contribute to the protection of civilians and conflict prevention, bring to the attention of the international community the horrors and reality of conflict and expose violations of human rights and international humanitarian law.

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Journalists Matter Campaign

Journalists Matter, the Council of Europe Campaign for the Safety of Journalists is an initiative aiming to promote press freedom and protect journalists from violence, threats, and harassment while performing their duties. As part of this Campaign, the Council of Europe is inviting everyone to support their cause, take action for their enhanced protection, while raising awareness about the importance of safeguarding journalists and their right to report the news freely and without fear. 

 Visit the "Campaign for the Safety of Journalists" webpage

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