API-IPA, “chilling” sudden dismissal of journalist for question at press conference

Brussels – The International Press Association (API-IPA) expresses “deep concern” about the sudden dismissal of journalist Gabriele Nunziati following a question he asked during the European Commission’s noon press conference on 13 October 2025.

“Journalists ask difficult and uncomfortable questions. It is our job. It is also one of the fundamental pillars of press freedom,” said Dafydd ab Iago, president of API-IPA, according to whom “punishing a journalist for doing his job during the European Commission’s daily press conference sends a chilling message to all correspondents in Brussels and Europe.”

Nunziati was dismissed from the newspaper he worked for after addressing a question on the Arab-Israeli conflict to Paula Pinho, the European Commission’s chief spokesperson, and Anouar El Anouni, the spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. Specifically, on behalf of Agenzia Nova, Nunziati, recalling how the Commission has repeatedly insisted on the need for Russia to pay for reconstruction damage in Ukraine, asked whether Brussels “believes that Israel should pay for the reconstruction of Gaza, given that it has destroyed almost all roads and civilian infrastructure.” Reply from Paula Pinho, EU chief spokesperson: “Gabriel, it is certainly an interesting question on which I have no comment to make at this stage.” The journalist’s question was later described by the journalist’s employer as technically incorrect and inappropriate.

“Regardless of its wording or perceived accuracy, no journalist should suffer professional sanctions or dismissal for asking a legitimate, albeit uncomfortable, question during a European Commission press conference,” added ab Iago.

API-IPA notes that the European Commission reaffirmed its commitment to media freedom and openness to all questions raised during its press conferences.

This disciplinary measure, API-IPA continues, appears “disproportionate, punitive, and potentially illegal, undermining public confidence in the independence of the press.” For the foreign press association, constructive dialogue and professional guidance—not dismissal—should be the preferred means of addressing any errors or misjudgments by journalists.

API-IPA therefore calls on Agenzia Nova to reconsider its decision and reaffirm its commitment to the principles of journalistic independence, proportionality, and fairness. “We stand in solidarity with all journalists who seek to do their work freely, responsibly, and without fear of retaliation,” is the association’s message.

Founded in 1975, API-IPA represents the accredited EU, NATO, and Belgian members of the Brussels-based journalism corps.