Legal threats have become a routine tool used to silence critical reporting. Journalists across Europe increasingly face lawsuits, SLAPPs, intimidation through courts, and other forms of legal pressure simply for doing their job. These tactics drain resources, create fear, and undermine the public’s right to know.
Through its legal support mechanism, the Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR) helps journalists and media workers access the legal assistance they need. Legal support, led by the European Centre for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF) may include guidance on legal strategy, access to expert advice, assistance with court proceedings, and engagement in national or international litigation. The programme can also support efforts to challenge laws and policies that threaten press and media freedom.
Each request is assessed on its merits by the Legal Affairs Committee, as resources are limited and demand is high. The mechanism does not cover labour disputes or cases where the journalist initiated the legal action, with limited exceptions.
Eligibility criteria
Before submitting your application, we strongly encourage you to carefully read through our legal support guidelines and eligibility criteria to understand the eligibility criteria, the types of assistance available, and the information required for a complete request.
Ready to apply?
Fill in this template with detailed information
and send it to the ECPMF’s Senior Legal Advisor Flutura Kusari flutura.kusari@ecpmf.eu for further assessment.
