European Journalists rally to confront media threats and innovate investigative journalism
At the recent annual congress of the Association of European Journalists (AEJ) held in Brussels, critical discussions centred on the escalating threats to media freedom across Europe and explored innovative models for sustaining quality journalism. The event brought together journalists and media experts from various countries, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the industry amid a backdrop of increasing repression and misinformation.
Keynote speakers included Teresa Anjinho, the European Union’s Citizens' Ombudsman, and Birte Schohaus, the deputy editor of the investigative online platform "Follow the Money." Schohaus recently garnered recognition with the Daphne Caruana Galizia Prize for her investigative work on Vladimir Putin’s "shadow tanker fleet," a prestigious accolade named in memory of the Maltese journalist assassinated in 2017. Their contributions underscored the importance of investigative journalism in holding power to account and safeguarding democratic values.
The congress also served as a platform for organisational renewal within AEJ. Arber Hitaj, a seasoned Albanian TV journalist, was re-elected as AEJ International President, alongside Catalin Dogaru from Romania, who retained the role of Secretary-General. Newly appointed vice-presidents include Irina Nedeva from Bulgaria, who also took on responsibilities as the new special envoy for media freedom, Javier Dominguez from Spain, and Otmar Lahodynsky, an Austrian expert in EU and foreign affairs journalism. These leadership roles reflect AEJ’s ongoing commitment to defending press freedom and supporting journalists amid growing political and social pressures.
Founded in 1962 as an international non-profit organisation, AEJ operates with over 700 journalists across 15 country sections. It functions under Belgian law as an international non-profit association (AISBL) and holds official NGO status with organisations such as UNESCO and the Council of Europe. The association’s mission encompasses defending press freedom, promoting democratic integration in Europe, facilitating professional development, and advocating for better working conditions for journalists. Its members represent a broad spectrum of media, including television, radio, print, digital platforms, and freelance reporting.
AEJ’s annual congress is more than a networking event; it is a vital forum where journalists deliberate on media freedom, journalistic ethics, and European affairs, all while shaping strategic directions and policies for the association. These congresses, numbering over sixty to date, have become pivotal in reinforcing the bonds between journalists who operate in increasingly challenging environments.
The situation facing journalists in Europe today is further complicated by the rise of disinformation, political interference, and economic constraints. Complementary initiatives like the Arena for Journalism in Europe foster cross-border collaboration among journalists, scholars, and civil society to address these challenges and promote investigative journalism. Such cooperation is seen as essential to maintaining an informed public and a healthy, functioning democracy.
Meanwhile, the AEJ section in Belgium, hosting the Brussels congress, continues its mission to support correspondents reporting on EU affairs, facilitating critical journalism and media freedom advocacy. This vibrant network includes professionals from diverse media backgrounds and serves as a hub for journalistic innovation and exchange.
The AEJ's efforts align with other European initiatives such as the European Commission’s Pool of Young Journalists, which nurtures the next generation of media professionals by enhancing their skills and understanding of European issues through immersive experiences in Brussels.
Overall, the AEJ congress and ongoing work within the organisation reflect the urgent need to protect journalism as a cornerstone of democracy in Europe. Their focus on collaborative, investigative, and quality journalism is vital in an era where media freedom faces unprecedented challenges.