Smear campaigns are an attempt by powerful figures to undermine someone's credibility and reputation - with the goal of distracting public attention from something they are trying to keep quiet. Recovering from a smear campaign is tough, but possible.

Qatargate at the European Parliament, continued deep corruption in Hungary, unprotected whistleblowers everywhere. Liberties’ annual EU-wide rule of law report found rules created by governments were too weak to stop or reduce corruption in 2022.

Liberties’ Rule Of law Report 2023 shows that civil society continues to be given the cold shoulder by EU governments in 2022. This hostility feeds negative public perceptions of activists and contributes to the increasing dangers they face.

Press Release

Liberties Rule of Law Report 2023

Liberties joins open letter by 40-plus journalist, media freedom groups asking Members of the European Parliament to support a strong Media Freedom Act.

Here is Liberties' initial reaction to the newly unveiled European Media Freedom Act (EMFA) proposal, released today by the European Commission.

Liberties signed a joint statement with journalists', media freedom, and human rights organisations bringing to the attention of the European Commission crucial policy elements overlooked by the European Media Freedom in its current draft.

What is the European Media Freedom Act? What is its purpose? When will it be launched? What new rules will it bring?

Czechia should use its term helming the Council to push for a properly functioning media system that protects and strengthens EU values and democracy.