Carlos Otero, from the European Federation of Journalists, has stressed the importance of protecting journalists across Europe, warning that what happened to Daphne Caruana Galizia must never become the norm.Speaking to Lovin Malta at the Daphne Caruana Galizia vigil today, Otero reflected on the federation’s work with the Daphne Caruana Galizia Foundation, and the emotional impact of the journalist’s story.He described the experience as both impactful and saddening, highlighting the importance of continuing the fight for press freedom and journalists’ safety.Otero emphasised that Europe must ensure journalists can carry out their work without facing threats, intimidation or violence.His comments come in the wake of the recent verdict in the trial of Yorgen Fenech, who was acquitted of charges relating to the murder of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. The verdict has reignited discussions about justice, accountability and the protection of journalists in Malta.Otero warned that Daphne Caruana Galizia’s case represents a much wider concern for press freedom across Europe, questioning what kind of future awaits journalism if powerful individuals are allowed to intimidate those holding them accountable.“If we are going to allow journalists to become intimidated by the elite, if we are going to allow them to not do their job, to not protect democracy, or if Europe is going to become a safe haven for powerful people who expect the media to treat them the way they want to be treated, then we need to make sure this case matters and we show up every single time,” he told Lovin Malta.Otero stressed that the issue extends far beyond Malta, arguing that allowing intimidation to silence journalists risks undermining the media’s ability to scrutinise those in power and protect democratic accountability.For Otero, continuing to show up, speak out and demand accountability is essential to ensuring that Daphne’s story is not forgotten and that journalists across Europe can carry out their work without fear of intimidation or retaliation.The European Federation of Journalists has worked with the Daphne Caruana Galizia Foundation, which continues to advocate for justice, accountability and stronger protections for journalists.Do you think enough is being done to protect journalists and press freedom across Europe?•