SkalaTimes: The Criminal Prosecution of Makarios Drousiotis Sets a Dangerous Precedent for Investigative Journalism
By the SkalaTimes Editorial Team
The decision to bring criminal charges against journalist and researcher Makarios Drousiotis, amounting to a total of 101 counts, raises legitimate concern—not only in relation to the case itself, but, more importantly, regarding its broader implications for press freedom and investigative journalism in Cyprus.
Without entering into the substance of the case and with full respect for the presumption of innocence and the independence of the judiciary, SkalaTimes believes that the scale and severity of this prosecution are capable of creating a powerful chilling effect on journalists. The message being sent is clear: reporting on matters of public interest, corruption and abuse of power may carry disproportionate personal, professional and even criminal consequences.
In recent years, the European Union has recognised the growing threats faced by journalists and has adopted a dedicated legal framework to counter abusive legal actions, including Anti-SLAPP measures designed to protect those acting in the public interest. At the same time, the European Court of Human Rights has repeatedly affirmed the role of the press as a “public watchdog” in a democratic society. The protection of investigative journalism is not a privilege granted to journalists; it is a fundamental safeguard of the public’s right to know.
At a time when Cyprus continues to record a decline in international press freedom rankings, the emergence of a climate of fear and self-censorship would represent a serious setback for democracy. The greatest threat to investigative journalism is not censorship alone; it is the growing perception that certain subjects are simply “off limits” because of the personal and professional risks attached to investigating them.
Journalism must, of course, be held accountable when it breaks the law. Equally, however, it must be protected when it serves the public interest in good faith. The criminalisation of journalistic activity connected to the publication of information of public concern—particularly where there is no evidence of malicious intent or participation in the unlawful acquisition of that information—raises serious questions of proportionality and freedom of expression.
The case of Makarios Drousiotis is not solely about one journalist. It is about whether journalists in Cyprus will continue to investigate those in positions of power without fear. Ultimately, it is about society’s right to be informed.
Because when journalists are afraid to investigate, democracy falls silent.
P.S. And yes, it is an open secret that many of us already hesitate to touch certain stories—and too often, we remain silent.
