About the network
The EFJ is the largest organisation of journalists in Europe, representing over 296,000 journalists in 75 journalists’ organisations across 44 countries. It was created in 1994 within the framework of the IFJ Constitution to represent the interests of journalists’ unions and associations and their journalists. It has established an independent legal status as an international non-profit association since February 2013 and its headquarters are located in Brussels, Belgium. It is recognised by the European Union and the Council of Europe as the representative voice of journalists in Europe. See the full list of countries with members here.
They fight for the social and professional rights of journalists across all media sectors in Europe through strong trade unions and associations. They support their affiliates in advancing their work and fostering environments that uphold quality journalism, editorial independence, pluralism, public service values, and decent working conditions in the media.
Their core work is divided into four main pillars:
- Defending Media Freedom: The EFJ monitors press freedom violations and lobbies European policymakers on key legislation, such as the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA). They actively campaign against Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs) and protect journalists from digital surveillance and harassment.
- Worker and Social Rights: They support member unions in collective bargaining, ensuring fair pay, decent working conditions, and safety for both staff and freelance workers. They also advocate for gender equality and diversity within the media.
- Advocacy and Capacity Building: Through targeted funding schemes and platforms like the Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR), the EFJ provides direct aid, legal support, and training to investigative and endangered journalists.
- Digital and Copyright Protections: The EFJ campaigns for a fairer digital environment, pushing for regulatory frameworks that protect journalists’ intellectual property rights from unauthorised use by generative AI companies.
Only journalists’ trade unions and associations in countries that are Council of Europe member countries can apply for membership to the European Federation of Journalists. Download the new member application form and subscribe the newsletter here.
Website:
https://europeanjournalists.org/
Contact:
https://europeanjournalists.org/contact-us/
Contact
Website: https://europeanjournalists.org/Network details
Size: 100+ members
Geographical focus: European
Skills
- Community outreach / audience development
- Editorial support / project management
- Event organization
