Obstacles to press freedom during the pandemic

Question for written answer  E-001050/2021
to the Commission
Rule 138
Maite Pagazaurtundúa (Renew)

The Commission has on several occasions expressed its concerns regarding compliance with Article 11 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union on freedom of expression and information in the Member States. Now, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, restrictions on reporting activities have increased under the pretext of precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the virus.

The problem is also evident in relation to issues pertaining to immigration, where reporters, but also press photographers, are facing strong obstacles in the course of their work.

Reporters Without Borders have made specific mention of Spain in this respect, saying that freedom of information had been actively hindered under the pretext of COVID-19 and of the protection of the dignity of immigrants.

• 1.Does the Commission intend to request information from the Member States concerned by these complaints?
• 2.Does the Commission consider it a priority to guarantee press freedom even during the pandemic?