Representative on Freedom of the Media’s Slovakia visit highlights media freedom challenges and progress
VIENNA, 9 June 2023 – Teresa Ribeiro, the Representative on Freedom of the Media (RFoM), concluded her visit to Slovakia yesterday. The purpose of the visit was to discuss persistent challenges to freedom of the media and assess the progress made in ensuring the safety of journalists in Slovakia.
During her visit, Representative Teresa Ribeiro held meetings with Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Miroslav Wlachovský, Minister of Culture Silvia Hroncová, State Secretary at the Ministry of Interior Ľubomír Šablica, and Chairperson of the Council for Media Services Marta Danielová.
She addressed the concerning backdrop of the recent acquittal in the double murder case of investigative journalist Ján Kuciak and his fiancée Martina Kušnírová. In this context, she commended Slovakia for establishing a new protection mechanism, Safe.Journalism.sk, designed to enhance the safety and security of journalists operating within the country.
Further discussions were held regarding the independence and financial sustainability of public service media in Slovakia.
"The crucial role of a vibrant and independent media sector in upholding democracy, promoting human rights, fostering diversity, and enhancing social cohesion and peacebuilding, especially in the run-up to the general election this year, cannot be overstated," Representative Ribeiro said.
The Representative on Freedom of the Media exchanged opinions with stakeholders on the measures introduced to strengthen the safety of journalists and enhance their institutional protection. Her proposals encompassed a range of measures to address existing challenges and ensure a more secure environment for media professionals to carry out their important work.
As part of her visit, Representative Teresa Ribeiro also highlighted the significance of ongoing legal reforms in Slovakia.
"These reforms play a crucial role in enabling media freedom and guaranteeing the protection of journalists' rights. They are essential to preserving freedom of the media and freedom of expression in the country while countering the proliferation of disinformation."
Moving forward, the RFoM expressed her optimism that the government of Slovakia will continue to demonstrate its commitment to media freedom and take concrete steps to implement the suggested measures. She stressed the importance of close cooperation between the government, civil society, and media organizations in fostering an environment conducive to the free flow of information, the protection of journalists, and the promotion of democratic values.
The RFoM will continue to monitor the situation closely and continue cooperating with interlocutors in Slovakia to safeguard media freedom, enhance the safety of journalists, and promote a vibrant and independent media landscape.