The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres has said that the freedom of the press is the bedrock on which democratic principles and justice thrive across the globe.
Guterres, in his speech to mark the 30th anniversary of World Press Freedom Day on Wednesday, May 3, said, “The international community has celebrated the work of journalists and media workers.”
This year’s theme as defined by UNESCO is: “Shaping a Future of Rights: Freedom of expression as a driver for all other human rights”.
Guterres said, “Freedom of the press is the foundation of democracy and justice. It gives all of us the facts we need to shape opinions and speak truth to power. But in every corner of the world, freedom of the press is under attack”.
The UN Chief also addressed the problems that are combating the journalism industry, such as stringent regulations, censorship, and threats to subdue freedom of expression.
He urged nations to stop all kinds of threats, imprisonment and lies that target journalists “for doing their jobs”.
