In a joint letter, EU CSOs and journalists, including ARTICLE 19, Civil Society Europe, and the European Federation of Journalists, expressed concerns over the EU’s proposed Foreign Interference Directive, part of the Defense of Democracy Package. They warn that its vague and broad regulations could jeopardize media freedom, particularly for organizations and media outlets funded by third countries. The Directive risks restricting press access and interactions with public officials, while also shrinking civic space and discouraging external funding. The organizations call for its withdrawal and a human rights impact assessment to prevent harm to freedom of expression and association. UN Special Rapporteurs and Independent Experts also echoed these concerns, warning that the Directive could stigmatize foreign-funded groups, leading to self-censorship and restricted rights. They urge the EU to ensure transparency measures apply uniformly without unfairly burdening or labeling CSOs as foreign agents. Read more here.
Source: Civil Society Europe/ The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights