AZIR Stands with Recorder: Democracy Needs Watchdog Journalism

Bucharest, December 12, 2024- The Romanian Association of Independent Journalists (AZIR), Romanian section of the Association of European Journalists, expresses full support for Recorder's documentary "Justiție Capturată " (Captured Justice), broadcast, also, by Romanian National Television.

This investigation exemplifies what Romanian democracy needs most: courageous journalism that holds power accountable.

Why This Matters

When journalists investigate the justice system itself, they perform democracy's most delicate function-ensuring that those who uphold the law are subject to public scrutiny. Recorder's work brings transparency to systems that operate in shadows.

This type of journalism requires exceptional skill, resources, and courage. Investigating powerful institutions brings pressure, criticism, and threats. Yet asking difficult questions and following evidence wherever it leads is what distinguishes genuine journalism from propaganda.

Press Freedom Under Threat

Romania has a proud tradition of investigative journalism, hard-won from its communist past. Today, outlets like Recorder carry forward this legacy in an environment where exposing dysfunction can have serious consequences.

Across Europe, we're witnessing attempts to undermine judicial independence and silence critical media. Romania is not immune. The challenges facing press freedom have rarely been more acute.

AZIR's Position

We stand firmly behind Recorder and all journalists fulfilling their duty to inform the public. Three principles guide us:

Independent journalism is public service. Citizens need information to make informed decisions about governance and institutions.

Press freedom and judicial independence are intertwined. A captured justice system cannot protect press freedom. A silenced press cannot expose judicial dysfunction. Each depends on the other.

Support must be concrete. AZIR commits to monitoring developments, raising awareness nationally and through the AEJ network, and mobilizing support if Recorder faces retaliation.

What We're Calling For

To Romanian authorities: Recognize investigative journalism as a vital democratic institution deserving protection, not obstruction. Respect journalists' independence. Ensure legal frameworks protect journalistic work. Understand that institutional criticism strengthens democracy, not weakens it.

To European institutions: Remain vigilant about press freedom in all member states. Use available mechanisms to support independent journalism and judicial independence.

The Bottom Line

Democracy requires constant vigilance, courage, and commitment. Investigative journalists are among its most dedicated practitioners, often at considerable personal cost.

Recorder's investigation is a European story about institutional fragility and journalism's essential role in preservation. AZIR stands with Recorder, with all Romanian journalists working with integrity and courage, and with everyone who believes a free press is indispensable to a free society.

Catalin-Teodor Dogaru

President of AZIR

Secretary-General of AEJ

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About AZIR: The Romanian Association of Independent Journalists is the Romanian section of the Association of European Journalists (AEJ), dedicated to defending press freedom and supporting journalists who hold power accountable.