Freedom of the press is of crucial importance for a lively, diverse and democratic formation of opinion.

Everyone has the right to freedom of expression. Although we in Germany often assume that freedom of expression and freedom of the press are a matter of course, we must always actively stand up for them. It must be ensured that freedom of the press does not just exist on paper, but can also be exercised in reality. Otherwise, there is a risk that our basic democratic order will be undermined and seriously threatened.

This threat is particularly evident in many countries around the world, where control over the media and the restriction of reporting and press freedom often go hand in hand with the rise of totalitarian power structures. A current example of this is the development of the Russian media landscape in connection with the war of aggression in Ukraine.

The British government's decision to extradite Julian Assange to the USA is also a scandal! This decision sends a devastating signal to journalists worldwide: for publishing certain information, you lose your freedom of movement and the right to asylum and are held captive in endless legal proceedings. We continue to stand by Julian Assange.

On the occasion of International Press Freedom Day, I call on all journalists to continue to report independently and critically, even if this brings uncomfortable truths to light - because telling the truth is not a crime! Let's fight for a world in which journalists can report without fear of persecution. This is the only way we can work effectively to preserve our democracy!

What can you do? For example, sign this petition from Amnesty International and call on the US government to drop the charges against Assange!

https://bit.ly/44j0AOK