Next week we are hosting our first round table event on the importance of press freedom with a special reference to conflict zones.
George Orwell, a passionate advocate on the importance of freedom of the press, famously stated, “Freedom of the press, if it means anything at all, means the freedom to criticise and oppose,” today he might have added unhindered and free from the fear of prosecution. Yet today this goal seems further away than it has in decades with 18 journalists killed since January and nearly 600 detained or imprisoned in over 70 countries.
Hosted by The Rt Honourable Lord Jackson of Peterborough, parliamentnews.co.uk is delighted to support this discussion on the importance of press freedom in the modern world with a special reference to work of journalists in conflict zones.
We have a stellar panel of speakers: former Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Sir John Whittingdale MP, senior journalist David Maddox, the political editor of the Independent, Fiona O’Brien, UK Director Reporters Without Borders and our own editor at large, Alistair Thompson.
Date: Tuesday 15th July 2025
Time: 6.00pm – 7.30pm
Location: Committee Room 3a, House of Lords, Westminster, London SW1A 0PW.
This event is an excellent opportunity for policy makers, academics, professionals, and community leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue on the importance of press freedom and the challenges journalists face.
Places are strictly limited and the last few remaining tickets are available from Eventbrite using the link below…