Journalists play a key role in the functioning of a democratic society. They help to bring reliable information to people, raise important topics and shape public debate. Free media ensure diverse voices in the public arena, supporting the sustainability of a strong and transparent civil society.
In recent years, the protection of press freedom has become particularly important. Disinformation and deliberately distorted information are used increasingly to sow confusion and undermine public trust in institutions, creating divisions and deepening mistrust.
Estonia knows very well what it means to live in a society where free media is suppressed and the dissemination of different opinions is restricted. This is why we consider it important to promote media pluralism – both in Estonia and internationally. Since July 2023, Estonia has co-chaired the Media Freedom Coalition. Through this coalition of 51 countries, we highlight the importance of freedom of expression and draw attention to the spread of disinformation and attempts to interfere in democratic electoral processes. This year, Estonia is also leading the work of the Freedom Online Coalition, which unites 42 countries and through which we stand for the protection of freedom of expression in the digital environment.
The World Press Freedom Index and tomorrow’s World Press Freedom Day are a reminder that free media is not self-evident. Protecting and sustaining it requires constant attention and a joint effort by all of us.
