PRESSProtect – Resources to support journalist safety in Europe is a constantly evolving platform for journalists and media workers in Europe, who are confronted with violence, prosecution and/or harassment due to their work. The platform showcases local, regional and international organisations that help to mitigate emergencies and support journalists so that they can resume their work. PRESSProtect provides information about support funds for emergency situations as well as resources to prevent threats.
PRESSProtect is developed under the Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR). MFRR tracks, monitors and reacts to violations of press and media freedom in EU Member States and Candidate Countries. This project provides legal and practical support, public advocacy and information to protect journalists and media workers. The MFRR is organised by an alliance led by the European Centre for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF) including ARTICLE 19, the European Federation of Journalists (EFJ), Free Press Unlimited (FPU), the Institute for Applied Informatics at the University of Leipzig (InfAI), International Press Institute (IPI) and CCI/Osservatorio Balcani e Caucaso Transeuropa (OBCT). The project commenced in 2020 and is funded by the European Commission.
The MFRR offers tangible and frontline support to journalists and media workers in EU member states and candidate countries who are at risk due to their work. This includes support for legal defence and opinion, emergency support such as covering travel, psychological support and family costs, offering residencies in Germany and Italy, and delivering and supporting training across the continent. This support is in place to ensure that journalists and media workers can continue their work and be protected from harm.