The Press Status

Press Status offers significant advantages to journalists, ensuring their rights and protections under various national and international laws.

This status not only legitimizes their role as information providers but also safeguards their ability to operate independently and without fear of censorship.

Journalists with Press Status have access to vital resources, including press facilities at events, exclusive interviews, and the legal protections necessary to conduct investigative reporting. Moreover, this status enhances credibility with the public and institutions, fostering trust in the media’s role in a democratic society.

Ultimately, Press Status empowers journalists to uphold freedom of expression and contribute meaningfully to public discourse, thereby strengthening democracy in Europe.

Press Status for Independent Journalists

WorkPress membership is available to independent professionals, including photographers, image reporters, columnists, press publishers, podcasters, and bloggers. More info…

(2) In Germany, the number of freelance union members covered by a press status was approximately 44,000 in 2021, compared to 18,000 salaried members of a media organization. This represents three times fewer salaried employees than in 2016.

(3) This status follows a wide range of traditions and standards across Europe. In Germany, like WorkPress, the two major unions (DJV and dju in ver.di) accept memberships from journalism students, retirees, and other categories of workers, including presenters, image reporters, illustrators, audio podcasters, YouTubers, bloggers, web designers, content managers, and individuals responsible for public information (press relations in public institutions, external communication officers in the private sector), as long as they provide “journalistic services.”

Advantages of Press Status 

A Protective Professional Status

Press Status offers numerous advantages to independent journalists, allowing them to enhance their professionalism and legitimacy in the field of information.

• Access to Resources: Independent journalists with press status gain valuable resources, including access to facilities at events, press conferences, and opportunities for exclusive interviews.
• Legal Protection: This status offers essential legal protections, such as the right to access information, safeguards against censorship, and assurances in cases of harassment or intimidation.
• Enhanced Credibility: Being recognized as a Press Correspondent boosts an independent journalist’s credibility with sources and the public, fostering trust in their work.
• Access to Training and Events: It also allows independent journalists to participate in professional training, seminars, and networking events, contributing to both their personal and professional development.
• Universal Rights: This status ensures that independent journalists enjoy the same universal rights as salaried journalists, promoting fairness within the journalistic field.

The Press Status is a major asset for independent journalists, providing them with the tools and protections essential for successfully practicing their profession.

The European texts governing press freedom and the public’s right to information allow the holder of a press status and/or a media outlet to: “disseminate the image of individuals involved in a current event or illustrating a matter of public interest, in a freely chosen form, provided that the dignity of the individual is respected.”