Our response to cancellation of RightsCon

Just yesterday we saw Reporter’s Without Borders’ annual index highlight the dire situation for press freedom globally, with most countries being categorised as “difficult” or “very serious”. The cancellation of RightsCon is live evidence of an escalating crackdown on freedom of expression around the world.

Safe spaces for human rights defenders and journalists to gather and share experiences and expertise are becoming fewer and further between. RightsCon represents a key moment in many organisations’ calendars, and the removal of this forum is a devastating blow for collective action.

Amidst rising authoritarianism, deepening polarisation and shrinking civic space, the Thomson Reuters Foundation stands with our partners who strive to protect free, fair and informed societies and democratic resilience. That means ensuring that people around the world have access to trusted, accurate information about global events, about their own rights, and access to support that enables them to withstand intimidation and exploitation.