The International Press Association (API-IPA) expresses deep concern over the illegal recording of a Politico journalist, and EU-accredited member of API, during an exchange with an EU official, warning that the incident raises serious questions about press freedom and the protection of journalistic work in Belgium and across Europe.
The association said that unauthorized recording by third parties, not participating in the telephone conversation, may violate Belgian law, notably Article 314bis of the Belgian Penal Code. This undermines the legal safeguards designed to protect journalists and their sources.
“Hacking and the disclosure of journalists’ materials strike at the heart of press freedom and the protections we must be able to rely on as reporters,” said Dafydd ab Iago, API-IPA president. “This incident sends a chilling message not only to journalists working in Brussels, but also to our sources who depend on confidentiality and trust.”
Ab Iago added that pursuing those responsible could prove difficult if state actors are involved. “The harder question is how to pursue those responsible, whether they are operating from within the European Union or from third countries such as Russia,” he said.
The association called for strengthened safeguards and clearer guidance for journalists seeking to improve the security of their communications and devices.
