Luxembourg, 26 October - Samuel Žbogar, the Slovenian Foreign Minister and Chairman of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, today participated in a parliamentary discussion on freedom of the press and the protection of journalists’ sources at the Chamber of Deputies of Luxembourg. The discussion was organised by the Sub-committee on the Media of the Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly. At the meeting, journalist Hans-Martin Tillack presented Minister Žbogar with a copy of the European Charter on Freedom of the Press, which was signed in May 2009 by 48 editors-in-chief and leading journalists from 19 Council of Europe member states.

Journalist Hans-Martin Tillack presented Minister Žbogar with a copy of the European Charter on Freedom of the Press

When Minister Žbogar received the Charter, he stated in a short speech that, during economic crisis and global challenges, we need freedom of expression and journalists who can report freely and independently. Media legislation is traditionally a national issue, and media autonomy is also defined by international standards; according to Minister Žbogar, the European Charter on Freedom of the Press can connect both levels, national and international.

“Independent journalism is a great media challenge also in Europe. I believe that the European Charter on Freedom of the Press can be an important step towards increased protection for journalists throughout Europe,” stated Minister Žbogar on receiving the Charter.