Greece’s media freedom has sharply declined, according to a new report from Human Rights Watch (HRW). The report highlights growing restrictions on journalists, including state surveillance, harassment, and legal pressure, which have resulted in widespread self-censorship. HRW urges the European Union to take stronger action to safeguard press freedom in Greece, while the Greek government defends its position, citing the EU’s Rule of Law Report.

Greece’s Declining Press Freedom: A Growing Crisis

Human Rights Watch’s latest report reveals alarming evidence of a systematic decline in press freedom in Greece. The report, which compiles testimonies from journalists and experts, underscores a growing environment of control, intimidation, and surveillance. While Greece promotes an image of a modern, democratic nation, the reality for journalists on the ground tells a different story.

Barriers to Free Reporting: Journalists Speak Out

HRW interviewed 26 journalists and various experts across different media platforms. The report paints a grim picture of Greece’s media environment, with many reporters from radio, television, print, and digital outlets describing an atmosphere of fear and repression. Twenty-two journalists reported that their working conditions had worsened significantly, with some even facing harassment from senior government officials. A number of journalists admitted they now avoid sensitive topics out of fear of retaliation.

A foreign correspondent, working in Greece, admitted to seriously considering leaving the country due to the escalating pressures, including threats and violence. One television journalist revealed the extent of top-down control over media content, with powerful figures, often linked to the ruling party, exerting influence over editorial decisions.

Government Surveillance and Legal Pressures on Journalists

The HRW report highlights several disturbing cases of government surveillance targeting journalists. In one high-profile instance, Greece’s use of spyware to monitor reporters, known as PredatorGate, became a major point of concern. Seven journalists reported being spied on using wiretapping or commercial spyware, raising serious questions about privacy and safety for those working to uncover critical stories.

Stavros Malichoudis, a freelance journalist, shared his terrifying experience of being surveilled by the Greek intelligence service in 2021. Fearing for his safety, he stopped meeting sources for months, illustrating the chilling effect of such surveillance on journalistic work.

Legal Tactics: The Government’s Growing Influence Over Media

The Greek government has also employed legal tactics to silence critical journalists. In addition to the use of surveillance, pro-government media outlets have reportedly benefited from favorable advertising deals, while independent journalists face defamation lawsuits designed to stifle their reporting. These suits, including those filed by relatives of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, represent a clear attempt to undermine free speech.

Although Greece decriminalized simple defamation in 2019, journalists can still face criminal charges for “insult” or “slander,” making it difficult for the press to hold the government accountable. The Greek government has resisted calls for greater transparency and accountability in the media, particularly regarding the allocation of public funds to state-run outlets.

The Government’s Response and Calls for Action

In response to the HRW report, Greek officials have largely dismissed the findings, arguing that minor reforms have already been made to address media freedom issues. Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis referred to the EU’s Rule of Law Report as evidence that Greece’s media environment is stable, despite the HRW findings to the contrary.

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis defended Greece’s track record on press freedom, labeling European Parliament criticism as unfair. He maintained that Greece’s rule of law is intact and that the government remains committed to democratic principles. However, HRW’s Europe Director, Hugh Williamson, called for stronger actions from the European Commission. He emphasized the need for meaningful change and a genuine respect for democratic values in Greece, especially as it pertains to media independence.

The EU’s Role in Upholding Media Freedom

The HRW report urges the European Union to step up its efforts to monitor Greece’s press freedom situation more closely. As a member state, Greece is expected to uphold the democratic values enshrined in EU law, including freedom of the press. However, the recent crackdown on journalists indicates that these standards are being violated.

The European Commission has yet to take substantial action in response to Greece’s worsening press freedom record, but the HRW report is likely to intensify calls for greater scrutiny. With mounting concerns about state surveillance, legal harassment, and media control, the EU’s role in protecting journalistic independence has never been more critical.

A Pivotal Moment for Greece’s Media Landscape

The situation in Greece is a stark reminder of the fragility of press freedom in Europe. As the government continues to exert control over the media, the threat to democracy grows. Greece’s journalists face an uphill battle, but the international community, particularly the EU, must take a stronger stance to ensure that Greece upholds its commitment to press freedom and democratic principles.