Marketing i Menedžment Innovacij (Apr 2025)
Institutional Media Freedom in the EU: Implications for Democratic Governance and Social Innovation
Abstract
The study investigates the vital role of press freedom as a cornerstone of democratic societies and highlights its importance as an indicator of human rights and civil liberties in different countries. Press freedom encompasses the media and journalists' right to obtain, disseminate, and publish information without censorship or reprisals. This fundamental right is integral to the broader scope of freedom of expression, enshrined in international declarations and covenants. The research emphasizes the growing threats to independent journalism, driven by deteriorating traditional business models, increased repression, and threats to journalists' safety. It underscores the necessity for both national and international efforts to uphold and safeguard press freedom. The article critically analyses the methodologies of prominent press freedom indices, for example, those provided by Freedom House and Reporters Without Borders, and finds consistency in their evaluations. It delves into the cultural, economic, and political variables influencing press freedom, demonstrating that countries with robust democratic traditions and institutions generally enjoy higher levels of media freedom. Conversely, nations with histories of conflict or authoritarian rule often restrict media operations. Economic stability and development, along with high education levels and cultural diversity, are also found to correlate positively with press freedom, suggesting that economically strong countries can better support independent media free from government influence. Moreover, the study explores how press freedom impacts various societal aspects, including human rights, corruption, and economic conditions. It highlights the role of free media in exposing corruption, educating citizens, and enabling accountability. The analysis points out that limitations on press freedom can function similarly to trade barriers by restricting access to credible information, thus affecting international trade flows. The findings from several global regions, including post-Arab Spring countries and nations like Nigeria and China, illustrate diverse challenges and governmental controls affecting media freedom. The research concludes that enhancing press freedom requires addressing political, legal, and economic context while promoting democratic governance and protecting civil liberties. It calls for clearer criteria and assessments within frameworks like the EU's Rule of Law Report to better capture state influence and media independence issues. The study advocates for a collective international effort led by bodies like UNESCO to ensure diverse and independent media access worldwide, underlining the critical role of press freedom in fostering democratic societies and informed citizenry.
