Bhubaneswar: World Press Freedom Day is celebrated every year on May 3 This Day is commemorated to highlight the significance of press freedom globally and to recognise the challenges encountered by journalists. The day also pays tribute to all the journalists who have lost their lives. World Press Freedom Day was first declared by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993. This declaration came after a recommendation made in 1991 at the twenty-sixth General Conference session of UNESCO. The year will mark the 31st anniversary of World Press Freedom Day.
Idea Behind It
The central idea behind this day, according to UNESCO, is the freedom of the press and expression. This allows communication-based on understanding, which is crucial for building lasting peace in today’s societies. The day reminds us that many countries still censor, fine, and even harm journalists.
History
An African journalist first started the initiative to celebrate World Press Freedom Day during a UNESCO conference in Namibia in 1991. In December 1993, the United Nations General Assembly decided to celebrate it after the recommendation of the UNESCO General Conference. The main purpose of this day is to remind the government and the world about the importance of the press in a democracy. It also highlights the freedom that the press needs to express themselves.
Theme
Every year, the day is marked around a particular theme highlighting the importance of freedom of the press. In 2024, the theme for World Press Freedom Day is ‘A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis.’
Significance
It serves as a global platform to acknowledge the critical role of a free and independent press in a healthy democracy.
It is a day to stand against authoritarianism. The day also shows how much we value the public service of honest journalists committed to uncovering the truth.
This day acts as a reminder to assess the state of press freedom across different countries and highlight areas where improvements are needed.
It emphasises the importance of protecting journalists from threats, harassment, and violence, often faced while reporting the truth.
Press Freedom Day pays tribute to journalists who tragically lost their lives in the line of duty, upholding the values of truth and accountability.
