His own message on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day which is celebrated today, Wednesday (3/5) is sent by the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres. “As journalists stand up for the truth, the world stands with themhe says.
“This day highlights a basic truth: All our freedom depends on the freedom of the press” he emphasizes and recommends that on today and every World Press Freedom Day, the world must speak with one voice: “Stop the threats and attacks . Stop arresting and imprisoning journalists for doing their jobs. Stop the lies and misinformation. Stop targeting the truth and those who tell the truth.”
At the beginning of his message, the UN Secretary General points out that for three decades, in World Press Freedom Daythe international community celebrates the work of journalists and media workers.
Further highlighting the importance of freedom of the press, he emphasizes that it is the foundation of democracy and justice. “It gives all of us the data we need to form opinions and speak truth to power.”
“Nearly three-quarters of female journalists have experienced violence online and one in four have been physically threatened”
Referring to this year’s World Day message, Antonio Guterres reminds, as reported by the Athens News Agency, that freedom of the press represents the very soul of human rights.
At the same time, Antonio Guterres highlights the dangers that lie ahead. “In every corner of the world, freedom of the press is under attack. Truth is threatened by misinformation and hate speech that seek to blur the lines between reality and fantasy, between science and conspiracy. The increased concentration of the media industry in the hands of a few, the financial collapse of dozens of independent news organizations, and the rise of national laws and regulations that stifle journalists further expand censorship and threaten freedom of expression. Meanwhile, journalists and media workers are being directly targeted online and offline as they carry out their vital work. They are systematically harassed, intimidated, detained and imprisoned.”
In this context, the UN Secretary-General points out that at least 67 media workers were killed in 2022 – an incredible 50% increase compared to the previous year and adds: “Nearly three quarters of female journalists have experienced violence online and one in four has been physically threatened. Ten years ago, the United Nations established a Plan of Action for the Safety of Journalists to protect media workers and end impunity for crimes committed against them.”
Source: News Beast
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