Freedom of the press means the right for media outlets (newspapers, magazines, TV, radio, online) to publish information, opinions, and ideas without censorship or interference from the government. It ensures the free flow of information to the public, allowing citizens to be informed and hold their leaders accountable.
Protection of sources:
Journalists can protect the identities of their sources, even if those sources are whistleblowers.
Whistleblower protections
Whistleblowers are individuals who share information about a private or public organizations illegal, unsafe, or unethical actions. Theyre usually employees of that organization. Because whistleblowers are at risk of retaliation from their organization, many countries have established protections. In 2019, the European Parliament approved new whistleblower rules protecting those who disclose information on illegal or harmful activities. Theyre allowed to disclose information internally or externally, but if no appropriate action is taken, the whistleblower is still protected if they disclose information publicly. Public disclosure usually means going to a journalist. Freedom of the press gives journalists and publications the right to protect a whistleblowers identity.
https://www.humanrightscareers.com/issues/freedom-of-the-press-101-definition-examples-significance/#:~:text=Freedom%20of%20the%20press%20gives,of%20censorship%20or%20government%20interference.