World Press Freedom Day 2023: World Press Freedom Day is celebrated annually on May 3. It is a day to recognise the vital service that press professionals provide. The United Nations observes this day to honour the fundamental principles of press freedom worldwide. By commemorating World Press Freedom Day, journalists and advocates for democracy contribute to the defence of freedom of expression, access to information, and the independence of the media, all of which are under continuous attack around the globe. This day also commemorates journalists who have been slain in the line of duty. To observe this day, let’s discover educational resources for those who want to learn about becoming a voice for others.
World Press Freedom Day 2023: Wishes, quotes, messages to share
HISTORY OF WORLD PRESS FREEDOM DAY
Journalists are essential for providing the public with facts, divulging the truth, and preserving awareness and transparency. Due to the fact that they annoy the powerful and democratic foes so much, journalists are frequent targets of violence, and many are assassinated. They decided to take action after a series of assaults on journalists during the African Civil Wars at the end of the 20th century.
In 1991, a group of African correspondents made an appeal at a UNESCO conference in Windhoek, the capital of Namibia. They drafted the “Windhoek Declaration,” a document intended to establish a free, independent, and pluralistic press. In 1993, in response to the signatories of the Windhoek Declaration, the 26th session of the UNESCO General Conference established World Press Freedom Day.
The central principle developed by UNESCO for the day is press and expression freedom in order to facilitate communication based on mutual understanding, which is the only way to construct lasting peace in modern societies. The observance serves as a reminder that dozens of countries around the world continue to censor, fine, suspend, and shut down publications that displease influential locals. Many persecute, assault, and even assassinate journalists.
In 2022, the theme for World Press Freedom Day is ‘Journalism Under Digital Siege.’
HOW TO Observe International Press Freedom Day
Create conventions to promote the holiday
The United Nations provides materials for publicising the event and researching the subject. Use these materials to organise World Press Freedom Day gatherings and discussions among friends, family, and coworkers.
Learn to recognise false news
Honour the labour of journalists by confirming the truth. Everyone should acquire the practise of gathering information and validating facts.
Remember those who altered the course of history
The press has produced numerous deviations and transformations in recent history. Because of their excellent work, governments have fallen, wars have ended, and movements have grown. Today, remember those who sacrificed their lives to bring the public the truth and alter the course of history.
National Garden Meditation Day 2023: Date, History, Activities and Facts
FIVE IMPORTANT FACTS CONCERNING PRESS FREEDOM
The Greeks esteem it the most
Nine out of ten Greeks believe that the media’s ability to convey the news without government censorship is crucial.
In Lebanon, it has few defenders
Only 28% of the Lebanese population believes press freedom is extremely essential.
Populists detest press liberty
In Western countries, only 35% of populists consider press freedom to be essential.
Scandinavia enjoys the most open press.
Norway, Finland, and Sweden rank first, second, and third, respectively, on the freest press index.
The number of journalists imprisoned has increased.
Persecution and arbitrary arrest of journalists are on the rise throughout the globe, with Turkey, China, and Egypt leading the way.
WHY THIS DAY IS IMPORTANT
It bolsters democracy
World Press Freedom Day assists in applying pressure to nations that censor and persecute the press. It is a significant barrier against authoritarianism.
We consider journalism to be a public benefit.
Celebrate this day with honour. It demonstrates the importance we place on the public service provided by truth-seeking, ethical journalists.
It commemorates the deceased.
World Press Freedom Day is significant because it honours those who sacrificed their lives to inform the public. It pays tribute to their memory and ensures that their sacrifice was not in vain.
WORLD PRESS FREEDOM DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | May 3 | Wednesday |
| 2024 | May 3 | Friday |
| 2025 | May 3 | Saturday |
| 2026 | May 3 | Sunday |
| 2027 | May 3 | Monday |
