Global Press Freedom Day: Challenges to protect this and the role of artificial intelligence in the media

It was formally established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993, May 3 Day of Freedom of the World Press. This date was appointed to celebrate the Windhoek (Namibia) statement on May 3, 1991, a document written by African journalists on the importance of principles in defending freedom of the press, pluralism and the independence of the media.
This anniversary acquires a special value in this historical period, where the freedom of the press in the world It looks more and more threat For restrictions and control.
“The free press is the best shield for democracy,” said European Parliament Speaker, Speaker of the European Parliament. Roberta Mitsola.
The European Parliament Speaker, Sabine Verhain, and the President of the Culture and Education Committee, Nala Rahl, who emphasized the vital role of the independent press, repeated her appeal.
In August 2025, EMFA will be completely valid
“The free, independent and varied press is necessary for any democratic society. However, even in some member states of the European Union – democracy cannot work without it.European law on freedom of the media (EMFA), approved in April 2024, is the key to dealing with these challenges, ”said Verheen, who also heads the working group on the EMFA application.
EMFA represents a historical tendency Protection of journalists Political intervention and economic pressures. But now this protection should be actively applied. “
The first judgments formally entered into force. The most important parts of the law will be applied from August 8, 2025, which means an important step in promoting freedom of the media throughout the European Union. For his part, Rahl warned of risks MisinformationEspecially on the Internet.
Quality press competes with algorithms on social networking platforms for our attention. To reduce the spread of harmful information, the European Union has started Regulating digital platforms, But we must also improve media literacy, make sure you can access sincere information and provide education on media consumption. “
“When information manipulating becomes a weapon, it enhances and protects people – especially Make work environments safe for independent pressWith housing working conditions, the infrastructure of European support and protection against persecution. “
The role of artificial intelligence in the media
This day was also an opportunity to think about hot issues, such as the role of artificial intelligence in freedom of the press and information.
On May 3, the Deputy Permanent Representative of Human Rights at the local and regional powers conference, Mélanie Lepautier, asked the authorities Fastening of benefits and address risks From the use of artificial intelligence in the media.
“While local and regional media decrease due to the rise of social networks and global media platforms, artificial intelligence can be of great value in the research journalism and create interesting content, as well as local and regional media. It can also release journalists to provide original reports,” says Lepaultier.
However, the digital transformation of local and regional media continues Cutting confidence in the local press. Local and regional media also have limited resources to train employees and journalists to the best use of the prosecution and other new technologies. This has a direct impact on its ability to prosper on the new digital environment and ensure the quality of content in modern local media. “
Freedom of the press in Europe is in danger
On Friday, correspondents without borders published a global rating for countries where journalistic activity or censorship is restricted. The following is a “The difficult global situationFor the first time, freedom of the press is at its lowest level.
According to the report, “the material attacks of journalists are the most clear violations of freedom of the press,” but “economic pressure is also a serious and treacherous problem.”
According to 2025 data, Italy is 49th, which is three jobs less than the previous year. It is the country Worse than Western Europe. The first in classification is Norway, in recent positions are China, North Korea and Eritrea. The United States Trump is located 57th.