Reporting on protests amid repression in Turkey, Serbia, and Georgia

As authoritarianism rises and democratic institutions weaken across parts of Europe, journalists on the frontlines of protest coverage are increasingly under attack. In Turkey, Serbia, and Georgia, reporters face escalating threats — from police violence and arbitrary detention to online censorship, legal harassment, and coordinated smear campaigns. These tactics not only silence critical voices but also undermine the public’s right to information.

To mark World Press Freedom Day 2025, this webinar will examine the hostile environment facing independent media in these three countries.

Through firsthand accounts and expert insights, the panel will explore:

• The risks journalists face while covering protests and state abuses

• Legal and regulatory tools used to restrict independent reporting

• Digital repression and attacks on press freedom online

• Strategies for resistance and the role of international actors in promoting accountability

This conversation will also consider how the EU, human rights organisations, and civil society can respond to growing repression and support a freer media environment.