In 2012, representatives of seven European media-owning foundations met in De Balie, brought together by Peter Preston, late editor of The Guardian.
There was a shared concern for the state of the public debate and access to quality information and these organisations decided to do something about it. They aimed at building an inspiring and strong network for those who champion and create quality journalism.
Since then, the European Press Prize has been devoted to finding and supporting excellent journalism in Europe and beyond.