On 26 June 2025, the EU Delegation to the UN in Geneva brought together trainees, interns and young professionals from across International Geneva for a timely discussion on global media freedom, its current threats, and the resilience of journalists on the frontlines of truth.

Opening the event, Ambassador Michele Cervone d’Urso, Chargé d'affaires, underscored the European Union’s unwavering commitment to defending media freedom as a cornerstone of democracy and human rights. He reminded participants that a free press is not just a democratic ideal—it is a practical necessity for informed debate, accountability, and peaceful societies.

Moderated by trainees from the EU Delegation, the event featured two distinguished speakers:

• Ms. Irene Khan, UN Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of expression and opinion
• Ms. Gunilla von Hall, Foreign Correspondent at Svenska Dagbladet and long-time Geneva-based journalist

The panel explored how independent journalism is increasingly under attack—through censorship, disinformation, intimidation, and economic pressure. Speakers drew attention to the shrinking space for media globally and stressed that the erosion of press freedom is both a symptom and a driver of democratic backsliding.

Special Rapporteur Ms. Khan highlighted the global trends she observes in her work, including the use of legislation to silence dissent, the persecution of journalists in exile, and the double threat faced by women journalists—especially online. She called for stronger international safeguards and underscored the responsibility of States to protect journalists and uphold the right to freedom of expression.

You kill a journalist, you kill the story. At least that’s what they think. And there are no consequences. That’s the kind of system I fight against — that's my job as a UN Special Rapporteur.
| Ms. Irene Khan, Special Rapporteur on freedom of expression and opinion

Ms. von Hall shared insights from her decades-long experience covering conflicts and crises around the world. She reminded the audience of the risks many journalists face to report the truth and told powerful stories of colleagues who continue their work despite threats, exile, or imprisonment. She also reflected on the changing media landscape, noting the importance of digital literacy and the need to rebuild public trust in journalism.

It is so important that we are out there — seeing with our own eyes, listening with our own ears. We have to bring home information about the victims, about people who are suffering.
We must speak about abuses, to hold those responsible accountable — also through our reporting.
And we have to try to tell the truth as much as we can.
| Ms. Gunilla von Hall, Foreign Correspondent at Svenska Dagbladet

The discussion stressed that media freedom is not just a concern for journalists—it is a global public good. Participants explored the role of civil society, international institutions, and citizens in pushing back against disinformation and defending democratic values.

The audience actively engaged in the conversation, raising questions about the safety of journalists in conflict zones, the EU’s role in promoting media freedom globally, and the impact of generative AI on trust in news.

Following the panel, participants had the opportunity to continue the conversation over a networking reception, fostering dialogue and solidarity among peers from across International Geneva.

The event was part of the #InterNconnected series, a flagship initiative of the EU Delegation designed by trainees for trainees. The series offers a unique platform for young professionals to engage with high-level experts, reflect on global challenges, and build meaningful connections within the multilateral system. Previous editions have addressed issues such as digital governance, gender equality, and human rights.

The EU Delegation thanks Ms. Irene Khan and Ms. Gunilla von Hall for their inspiring contributions and looks forward to continuing this important dialogue on defending press freedom and democratic resilience.