OSCE – Supporting better working conditions for journalists

Background

Working conditions for journalists have deteriorated dramatically in recent years in many European countries. Journalists regularly face pressure, threats of legal proceedings, harassment and threats both online and offline, smear campaigns, pressure from political actors and other people in power.

The economic pressure on the media has also increased, ranging from governments trying to punish independent media by withdrawing advertising to fierce competition from the global social media platforms. Regional and national authorities in several countries use unclear or harsh laws to put pressure on the media and journalists. Consequently, the number of legal proceedings against independent media and journalists have increased.

While there are currently a number of initiatives in the region aimed at improving the financial viability of the media, as well as educating and strengthening the professional skills of journalists, there are few initiatives directly aimed at improving working conditions for journalists.

Mission

Our mission is to improve the working conditions of journalists in the participating countries                               

This will be achieved through the following project objectives

• The participants develop a change project with a focus on improved working conditions to implement in their respective organisations
• The participants establish networks for the exchange of ideas, experiences and good practice
• The participants are strengthened in conducting advocacy work for better working conditions for journalists in their countries.
• The program will include a combination of workshops, networking, study visits, and mentorship and will be conducted both online and on-site in Sweden as well as another country.