Good [morning/afternoon/evening] everyone,
Today, I stand before you to speak on a subject that holds immense importance in any free and democratic society — World Press Freedom Day, observed every year on May 3rd.
This day is not just a calendar event; it is a reminder of the fundamental principles of press freedom, a time to reflect on the state of media worldwide, and a moment to honor journalists who have risked — and sometimes lost — their lives in pursuit of truth.
Let’s begin by understanding why press freedom matters.
The press is often referred to as the “Fourth Pillar of Democracy”, standing alongside the executive, legislature, and judiciary. Why is that? Because a free press serves as the eyes and ears of the people. It holds the powerful accountable, informs citizens, exposes injustice, and ensures that voices — even the smallest and most marginalized — are heard.
Imagine a world without the press. Corruption would go unnoticed. Human rights violations would be hidden. Citizens would be unaware of their rights and responsibilities. In short, the silence would be dangerous.
Unfortunately, even in the modern world, press freedom is under constant threat. According to global watchdogs like Reporters Without Borders and UNESCO, many journalists face harassment, imprisonment, censorship, or even death — just for doing their job.
In some countries, speaking the truth has become a crime. Governments impose strict control, shutting down independent news outlets or manipulating narratives to suit their interests. Misinformation and fake news are spreading faster than ever, often overpowering facts and dividing societies.
But here’s the truth: a society cannot be truly free without a free press. Suppressing the media is often the first step toward authoritarianism.
This is why World Press Freedom Day is vital. It reminds governments of their duty to uphold freedom of expression. It reminds citizens of their right to access accurate and unbiased information. And most importantly, it reminds journalists that they are not alone.
This year’s theme, as declared by UNESCO, emphasizes the role of journalism in times of crisis. Whether it’s a war zone, a health pandemic, or political unrest, journalists are often on the front lines, ensuring we get the truth. During the COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, many reporters risked their health to deliver updates, verify facts, and battle misinformation.
On this day, we must also pay tribute to those who lost their lives in the line of duty. They were not just reporters or photographers — they were truth-tellers, and their courage should never be forgotten.
So, what can we do?
As citizens, we must support press freedom by consuming news from reliable sources, fact-checking information, and standing against censorship. We must defend journalists’ rights and condemn violence against them, whether physical or digital.
For governments and institutions, the responsibility is even greater. They must protect media workers, create legal environments that promote transparency, and avoid any laws or actions that threaten the independence of the press.
In conclusion, press freedom is not just about journalists or media houses. It’s about you and me, our right to know, to question, and to express. It’s about building a just society where truth is not silenced and where every citizen can make informed decisions.
Let us use this day not just for speeches and hashtags, but to recommit ourselves to the cause of press freedom — today and every day.
Thank you.