What We Do

Supporting an independent and pluriform media landscape — so that our democracy remains strong and resilient.

Reliable media are indispensable, especially now. They allow citizens to stay informed, enable us to hold those in power accountable, and allow us to exchange ideas based on shared facts. We aim to support the continued existence of reliable media and innovate where necessary, ensuring our democracy remains strong and resilient.

What that means in practice

Our independent and pluriform media are of great value – as are our democracy and the rule of law. But they cannot be taken for granted. We safeguard a pluriform media landscape that serves democracy and the rule of law. We protect journalistic independence from commercial and political influence. We act against totalitarian tendencies that undermine democracy, in any form they may take.

Well-informed citizens are a prerequisite for a strong democracy. We commission independent research on the relationship between media and democracy. We serve as a hub where knowledge about media and democracy converges, informing policy and debates with new, fact-based insights.

Technological developments are following one another at a rapid pace, presenting new questions not only for the media but also for democracy. How do we relate to AI, social media, and the power of big tech companies? We take a stand on these issues — as a dialogue partner, a voice in public debate, and a driver of innovation. This applies not only to how media operate but also to how democracy functions. We stimulate thinking about democracy of tomorrow and the day after.

We need each other for strong media and a stable democracy. We organise meetings, set up programs, and bring networks together. As an independent actor, we facilitate relevant conversations and connections, encouraging people to reflect and act.

We collaborate with these organizations.

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The Firewall aims to break the power of big tech companies over our democratic society. A journalistic team investigates and reveals their methods. If tech giants demonstrably cross the line, The Firewall’s legal branch takes them to court.

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Every year, the Dutch Journalism Festival brings journalists and their audience together for a weekend in Deventer. It is a perfect opportunity to reflect on the challenges and opportunities of contemporary journalism.

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The Academy for the Rule of Law is a course of study by Leiden University providing in-depth knowledge about the fundamental principles, institutions, and processes of the democratic rule of law.

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Bits of Freedom strives for an open and just information society. The organization fights for digital rights through advocacy, campaigns, and legal actions, in the Netherlands and Brussels.