Europe's reputation as a global sanctuary for the press masks a deteriorating internal reality. The murders of Daphne Caruana Galizia, Peter R. de Vries, and Ján Kuciak and his fiancée demonstrate that these are not tragic outliers, but indicators of an escalating vulnerability. Press freedom on the continent faces unprecedented and sustained pressure.
These attacks are not just attacks on individuals. They are attacks on the very core of the democratic order. Journalists expose corruption, organised crime and abuses of power - and that is precisely why they become targets. When journalists are intimidated, sued or killed, the message is clear: the truth becomes dangerous.
Murder is the most extreme act, but repression rarely begins with violence. It starts with silence - subtle pressures, legal manipulation and attempts at discreditation. That is precisely why political responsibility must not be merely declaratory, but concrete and decisive.
The EPP Group acts with this awareness. By adopting the Anti-SLAPP Directive, we have sent a clear message: the legal system must not be used as a tool to silence critical voices. Those who abuse the courts to stifle the public interest must face consequences. There is no place in a democracy for intimidating those who speak the truth.
At the same time, the European Media Freedom Act represents a key step towards strengthening the resilience of our democratic system. It protects editorial independence, ensures greater transparency and reinforces pluralism. Free and independent media are not a luxury - they are a cornerstone of a functioning democracy.
On World Press Freedom Day, we must not settle for commemoration. The real question is: are journalists safe today? Can they work without fear, political pressure, or economic coercion? If the answer is no, then our fight is not over.
Although years have passed since Daphne's assassination, the Maltese government's record on media freedom continues to be defined by delay, obstruction, and spin. The limited reforms introduced in recent years have come largely in response to sustained European pressure - not from Castille's own initiative. Journalists today enjoy somewhat stronger protection from SLAPP suits because of persistent domestic campaigning and international scrutiny, not because the government finally accepted its responsibility to safeguard press freedom.
The alleged mastermind behind Daphne Caruana Galizia's murder has yet to be brought to justice, and several key recommendations of the public inquiry into her assassination repeatedly highlighted by the European Parliament - remain unimplemented.
Media freedom is fragile - even in democracies. It depends on political will, legislation and the societal values we shape every day. That is why it is our duty to clearly and decisively defend those who defend the truth.
Today, we pay tribute to those who have lost their lives in this fight. Their courage obliges us. Because when the truth becomes a target, silence is not an option.
The front line of democracy is closer than we think - and it is up to all of us to protect it.
Sunčana Glavak - EPP deputy coordinator CULT
David Casa - head of the Maltese delegation in the EPP