Around 200 people, mostly journalists, editors and photographers, gathered in Ljubljana's central square, the Prešeren Square. The crowd marched to the French Embassy, where a minute of silence was held to honour the victims. Then they put down their pens in a show of solidarity.
French ambassador to Slovenia Pierre-François Mourier addressed the crowd. He thanked them for their support and their solidarity with the people of France, saying that the attack on the Charlie Hebdo headquarters was not only an attack on freedom of the press but also an attack on freedom in general. He highlighted that this was an attack against the entire country, adding that the people of France stand united against terrorism.
President of the Slovenian Journalists' Association (DNS) Matija Stepišnik said after the rally that the attack on the Charlie Hebdo office was one of the most barbaric assaults on freedom of expression, freedom of the press and freedom of the media in general. He stressed that freedom of the press is under constant attack from politicians, big money and lobbies, adding that Slovenian journalists are professionals who know how to defend against such attacks.
Brussels in mourning
People in Brussels met to remember the 12 journalists who died in the attack in Paris. Flags were flown at half-mast, and MEPs gathered outside the building to "show their solidarity with France", President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz said. In Riga, European Commissioners observed a minute's silence at a meeting to mark the start of Latvia's presidency of the EU.
Pope Francis was among those who condemned the attack. He celebrated a Mass in memory of the victims, saying that the terrorist attack in Paris was a reminder of how cruel humankind can be: "Let us pray for the victims of this cruelty, there are so many. Let us also pray for the perpetrators and ask the Lord to change their hearts." The leader of the Catholic Church also launched a special hashtag on Twitter: #PrayersForParis.
T. K. B., B. T.; translated by D. V.
