Tom Gibson, the EU representative and advocacy manager at the Committee to Protect Journalists, highlights the importance of upholding the rule of law in Brussels following the recent elections. He discusses the challenges faced by independent reporters in Slovakia, where the new coalition government is displaying a hostile attitude towards the media. Drawing parallels with Hungary’s authoritarian regime under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, Gibson warns of a similar trend emerging in Slovakia, where the government is seeking to control the media landscape through various measures.
Gibson recounts his visit to Bratislava with journalist Attila Mong, where they observed the growing threat to press freedom in Slovakia. The government’s efforts to bring the media under its control, taking inspiration from Hungary’s playbook, raise concerns about the future of independent journalism in the country. The role of the EU in preventing the erosion of media freedom is crucial, especially in light of the recent elections in Hungary that were deemed free but not fair by the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).
The situation in Slovakia is deteriorating rapidly, with new legislation aimed at exerting political influence over public broadcasters and limiting access to information. Trust in traditional media is dwindling, leading to an increase in social media-driven disinformation and conspiracy theories. Gibson highlights the authorities’ response to the shooting of Prime Minister Fico, which included blaming journalists for spreading hatred. The atmosphere of fear and uncertainty among Slovak journalists further underscores the urgent need for action to protect press freedom.
Gibson warns of incremental attempts to restrict independent media in Slovakia, with journalists facing pressure from foreign owners linked to the government. Verbal attacks on journalists by politicians have fueled online abuse and created a hostile climate for media freedom. As the EU grapples with the aftermath of the European elections and focuses on future alliances and appointments, Slovakia risks drifting away from the rule of law. The European Commission must be proactive in defending press freedom in Slovakia and holding the government accountable.
Brussels has been working to strengthen its ability to defend press freedom in member states through the European Media Freedom Act and the Digital Services Act. Money talks, and Gibson suggests that tying EU funds to the condition of upholding the rule of law could be an effective way to pressure Slovakia. As Hungary’s actions in blocking EU funds for Ukraine demonstrated, an independent press is essential for maintaining checks and balances within the EU. Gibson calls on Brussels not to wait and to take immediate action to protect press freedom in Slovakia before it is too late.
In conclusion, Gibson emphasizes the need for the EU to address the growing threats to press freedom in Slovakia and prevent a repeat of Hungary’s authoritarian media control. By enforcing existing laws and leveraging financial incentives, Brussels can send a clear message that media freedom is a non-negotiable aspect of a democratic society. The role of independent journalists in holding governments accountable and informing the public cannot be understated, and it is imperative that the EU takes swift and decisive action to safeguard press freedom in Slovakia.
