Statement of Greece, France and Lithuania, the Co-Chairs of the Group of Friends for the Protection of Journalists for the World Press Freedom Day
Updated 2024-05-03
Statement of Greece, France and Lithuania, the Co-Chairs of the Group of Friends for the Protection of Journalists for the World Press Freedom Day on Friday, 3 May 2024.
To commemorate World Press Freedom Day, we restate our dedication to upholding press freedom and the core tenets of free, independent and pluralistic journalism, while also stressing the crucial need to protect it as a public good and to safeguard journalists and media workers.
A free and independent media stands as a vital pillar of democratic governance. It serves a crucial function in uncovering and advocating for accountability in cases of human rights violations and abuses, environmental crimes, and misconduct. We highly appreciate the efforts of every journalist and media professional, notably those risking their liberty and safety for impartial reporting, and we steadfastly pledge our unwavering support to them in their endeavors.
The international community observes the increasing threats to journalistic freedom worldwide amidst worsening security conditions, oppressive media environments, disinformation and diminishing room for civic engagement. We reiterate the condemnation of all violations and abuses committed against journalists and media workers worldwide. We also highlight our support to the UN Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity, and encourage its implementation.
Ensuring the protection of journalists' and media workers' rights is crucial, particularly in situations of war and armed conflict. In this regard, we condemn the tragic and unacceptable attacks, killings and injuries sustained by all journalists and media workers all over the world. We stress that journalists are entitled to protection as civilians under international humanitarian law. We also deplore increasing restrictions on journalists and deteriorating media freedom, including unjust imprisonment.
This year, the 31st World Press Freedom Day Conference, held in Chile and for which UNESCO is the lead agency, marks a significant dedication to the importance of journalism and freedom of expression in the context of the current global environmental crisis. We warmly embrace the chosen theme, recognizing the profound relevance of the symbiotic relationship between journalism and the preservation of our planet.
At the heart of this dedication lies a fundamental acknowledgment: the information ecosystem, including reliable access to independent environmental and scientific journalism, serves as a beacon guiding societies through the complexities of our environmental challenges. It aids to discern truth from manipulation, exposing environmental crimes and corruption as well as climate disinformation, and take informed decisions, including about environmental policies.
We stand in solidarity with this imperative focus, understanding that fostering a climate of free expression and journalistic integrity is not merely a matter of professional concern, but a collective responsibility for the welfare of our planet and its inhabitants. Together, let us champion the indispensable role of journalism in safeguarding our environment and nurturing a sustainable future for generations to come.
