The European Federation of Journalists (EFJ), the regional group of the International Federation of Journalists, welcomed the recognition by the Council of Europe of the importance of media in democracies at a time when journalists are feeling even more pressure from the growing financial crisis. 

"Especially in these times of financial crisis and lack of trust within society, accurate and reliable reporting is more important than ever," said Arne König, EFJ President. "We are supporting the principles and mechanisms articulated in this resolution. In particular, we welcome the decision that ‘national parliaments should draw up periodical reports on media freedom in their countries on the basis of certain criteria."

On October 3, the Council of Europe's Parliamentary Assembly passed resolution 1636 ‘Indicators for media in a democracy,' which recognises the importance of protection of sources, access to documents, self-regulation and editorial independence. It also acknowledges the need for "adequate working contracts with sufficient social protection."

"We now hope that all Member States of the Council of Europe will put this in practice," König said.

The full text of Resolution 1636 can be down-loaded at:

http://assembly.coe.int/Mainf.asp?link=/Documents/AdoptedText/ta08/ERES1636.htm

For more information contact the EFJ at +32 2 235 2200

The EFJ represents over 260,000 journalists in more than 30 countries