Publicism is under pressure – a common defence of freedom

37 media executives, members of DPCMO, and the journalists' union have today published an op-ed ahead of the Danish EU Presidency on 1 July. Executives representing the diverse Danish media industry - public and privately owned media, magazines, digital publishers and niche media.

The media are united under the auspices of DPCMO because despite our differences, we have something crucial in common: we are all here to support democracy and cohesion. It’s about citizens’ access to credible and diverse news content. A shared public sphere where we understand what is true and false and where people in power are held accountable.

The Prime Minister says we need people who dare. People who take responsibility, because Europe is facing a moment of destiny. That’s why we need to increase our resilience and rearm democratically.

The Minister of Culture is equally clear. European democracies are under attack from fake news and foreign influence. This calls for rearmament, and culture and strong independent media are crucial weapons of defence. The Minister will make copyright and culture the cornerstone of European democratic defence and a priority during the Presidency.

We look forward to Denmark continuing its leadership on this important European agenda and contributing to this crucial work, where we have already shared several concrete proposals with the Danish Parliament and Government.

Well-informed citizens and well-functioning markets are the strongest guarantees for democracy, peace, freedom and prosperity.

To succeed, we need courage, innovation and unity.