A free, independent, and pluralistic press is a cornerstone of European democracy. Journalism plays a critical role in holding power to account, informing citizens, and providing resilience against the rising tide of information manipulation, and state-sponsored propaganda. Media freedom is not just a principle—it is a safeguard of peace and democracy.

But today, the unchecked spread of AI-generated content by platforms and chatbots—delivered without fact-checking, transparency, or legal accountability—risks eroding public trust in professional verified editorial sources. When synthetic information is treated as equivalent to journalism, the very foundations of public discourse and democratic decision-making are weakened.

In a world that is rapidly changing and increasingly complex, our strength lies in unity, courage, curiosity, and inclusion. But also in integrity, innovation, and a shared commitment to truth. Journalism rooted in knowledge and passion gives meaning to those ideals.

Europe Day is a time to reflect not only on our achievements but also on the challenges ahead. And it is through open conversation, collaboration, and a free press that we will continue to confront those challenges and build the resilience our democracy needs.

For further information, please contact Angela Mills Wade at: [email protected], Heidi Lambert at: [email protected] or Karen Rønde at DPCMO

https://www.linkedin.com/company/epceurope

DPCMO – Danske Pressepublikationers Kollektive  https://dpcmo.dk

EMMA – European Magazine Media Association www.magazinemedia.eu

ENPA – European Newspaper Publishers’ Association  www.enpa.eu

EPC – European Publishers Council   www.epceurope.eu

EFJ – European Federation of Journalists  https://europeanjournalists.org

NME – News Media Europe  www.newsmediaeurope.eu