On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day on 3 May, EUROPE DIRECT Epirus, EUROPE DIRECT Ionian Islands PRAXI Network, EUROPE DIRECT Ionian Islands Ionian University and EUROPE DIRECT Peloponnese are organising an online information event entitled “Democracy, the Rule of Law and Journalism: Truth at a Critical Turning Point” on Wednesday, 27 May 2026, at 19:00.
The rule of law lies at the heart of the values of the European Union, as it safeguards both democracy and citizens’ rights and freedoms. In the European Commission’s Political Guidelines for 2025–2029, the protection of democracy and the strengthening of the rule of law are central pillars, aimed at defending European values, reinforcing institutional resilience and combating corruption.
In July 2025, the European Commission published its annual Rule of Law Report, which includes specific recommendations for each Member State, including Greece, highlighting issues of accountability and justice. On 29 April 2026, the European Parliament adopted its report on the state of the rule of law in the EU for 2025. The report addresses the contemporary challenges facing the rule of law in Europe, with emphasis on judicial independence, the fight against corruption, press freedom, the safety of journalists and the new challenges posed by digital platforms and artificial intelligence.
The event will discuss judicial independence, press freedom, pluralism, media freedom and the protection of journalists, as well as the implementation of the anti-SLAPP Directive, which addresses intimidation, online threats and abusive legal proceedings. These are among the major safeguards of the rule of law. There can be no democracy without the rule of law, and Europe is, above all, a Union based on law.
Certificates of attendance will be issued electronically upon request.
