World Press Freedom Day: A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the face of the Environmental Crisis

This year, World Press Freedom Day focuses on the critical role of journalism and freedom of expression amidst the ongoing global environmental crisis. Journalism plays a vital role in raising awareness about the various facets and impacts of the environmental crisis, crucial for fostering democratic societies.

Journalists face numerous obstacles in uncovering and sharing information on contemporary environmental issues, including supply chain disruptions, climate-induced migration, extractive industries, and environmental crimes like illegal mining, pollution, poaching, and deforestation. Amplifying the visibility of these issues is vital for advancing peace and democratic values worldwide.

Amidst the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and air pollution, misinformation campaigns challenge scientific knowledge and research methods, posing a significant threat to informed public discourse. Misleading information about environmental issues can hinder international efforts to address them effectively.

Combatting misinformation requires a multifaceted approach, including protecting journalists from crimes committed against them, safeguarding freedom of expression and scientific research, and promoting media plurality and diversity, especially among regional and community-based media outlets. Additionally, governance of digital platforms must prioritize transparency, accountability, and adherence to international human rights standards.

World Press Freedom Day, established by the UN General Assembly in 1993, serves as a reminder to governments to uphold their commitment to press freedom. It also provides an opportunity for media professionals to reflect on press freedom issues and ethical standards while honoring journalists who have sacrificed their lives in the pursuit of truth.

 UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize , 1997:

Initiated in 1997, the annual UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize recognizes individuals, organizations, or institutions for their exceptional efforts in defending and promoting press freedom globally, particularly in challenging circumstances.

The Prize, instituted by UNESCO's Executive Board, is officially awarded by UNESCO each year on May 3, coinciding with World Press Freedom Day.

It pays tribute to Guillermo Cano Isaza, a Colombian journalist who was tragically assassinated outside the offices of his newspaper El Espectador in Bogotá, Colombia, on December 17, 1986.

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