The global assault on press freedom: what we should know, what can be done?

A free, independent, and uncensored press is vital to a democratic society, yet journalism is under assault globally, including in western countries. It is becoming significantly more dangerous, and harassment, intimidation and attacks against the press have increased exponentially in recent years.  Attacks against defenders of the press is on the rise as well. It takes the shape of online and physical harassment as well as the weaponization of the law in various forms. The onslaught of misinformation only amplifies the risks facing journalists and the public. The result is decreased accurate information to the public, an uninformed citizenry, and a breakdown of the rule of law and democracy.

In this fireside chat, leading international barrister Caoilfhionn Gallagher, KC, Doughty Street Chambers, and general counsel of The Associated Press, Karen Kaiser, discuss the many vectors of legal attacks on the press and its defenders, recent trends (including attacks on freedom of speech in the US), and upcoming issues to watch for, and potential initiatives and approaches to counter the threats. They bring to the discussion the two key perspectives of a leading international human rights practitioner and seasoned in-house counsel of a global news company – as well as the two perspectives from the UK and the US – to discuss the pressure points, impact, and the critical importance of preserving a free press.

Organised in association with The Associated Press.