“Freedom of expression as enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human rights entails everyone’s right to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers. On the occasion of World Press Freedom day, the European Union recalls these principles and pays tribute to all those who fight for the respect of freedom of expression and for free, pluralistic press and other media.

Censorship and harassment of editors, writers, journalists or bloggers are unacceptable, as are the use of violence and state induced arrests inflicted upon them. The EU commends the courageous work of journalists who, in often highly precarious conditions, continue to provide independent information. The EU calls on all states to guarantee the safety of journalists and to allow them to carry out their vital role of reporting and commenting on events in an independent manner without fear of violence and recrimination.

Freedom of expression also extends to the internet and other media, and the EU is firmly opposed to any unjustified, disproportional restrictions of access to or use of these media.”