The European Federation of Journalists has targeted support for journalists and their unions in the South East of Europe where media staff are facing a twin crisis caused by political neglect, political pressure and lack of trade union rights.

"Unions and their members are facing a catastrophic situation caused by a toxic mix of social and professional problems," said Arne König, EFJ President. "There is a need to focus on practical actions, country by country, to address the crisis."

The EFJ decision comes as the Federation has decided to terminate its three-year agreement with the WAZ Media Group, the German-based publisher which has holdings in 8 countries of South East Europe.

"We had hoped that our agreement with WAZ would lead to new social dialogue and better industrial relations in the region, but it has failed to deliver", said König. "We will now look for new ways to support journalists and their unions."

The EFJ is giving formal notice to WAZ to terminate the agreement, which was signed in 2007, with effect from February next year.

Plans are being developed for EFJ actions in Bulgaria and Romania and the Federation aims to continue support for a pilot initiative to promote social dialogue in Macedonia between journalists and management at major titles owned by WAZ.

The EFJ represents over 260,000 journalists in 30 countries.
For more information contact the EFJ at +32 2 235.2200