The statement came in the chapter on Italy in its 2024 Rule of Law Report.
“Cases of physical attacks, death threats and other forms of intimidation have been reported, which continue to raise concerns on the safety of journalists in Italy,” it said.
In its recommendations, it called on the government to continue the process of reform of the law on defamation, which is a criminal offence in Italy.
They also called on the government to abolish of the penalty of imprisonment for press defamation.
It added Italy should “ensure that rules or mechanisms are in place to provide funding for public service media that is appropriate for the realisation of its public service remit and to guarantee its independence”.
This comes after a series of high-profile resignations from state broadcaster RAI, many of whom allege the government of Giorgia Meloni is taking over and turning it into a government mouthpiece.
ANSA
