Pavel at Forum 2000 stresses role of free media and civic structures

President Petr Pavel said at the Forum 2000 conference that regardless of the next Czech government’s composition, it is vital to preserve and strengthen the foundations of democratic civic structures. He highlighted the need for strong public service media and a pluralistic media landscape to counter Russian disinformation, which he described as a major threat to European security and democracy. Pavel welcomed the opening of a regional office of Reporters Without Borders in Prague, saying it would bolster independent journalism and resilience against disinformation across Central and Eastern Europe. He also emphasized the importance of universities and NGOs.