Manashimaya
As we commemorate World Press Freedom Day on May 3rd, we reaffirm the fundamental importance of a free and independent press in our societies. This day is a poignant reminder of the vital role, journalists play in upholding democracy, fostering transparency, and safeguarding human rights.
At the heart of World Press Freedom Day lies a celebration of the principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, particularly Article 19, which recognizes the right to freedom of expression and information. This foundational document underscores the inherent value of a vibrant and diverse media landscape in promoting accountability, fostering dialogue, and empowering citizens.
Yet, as we reflect on the significance of press freedom, we must also confront the sobering reality that journalists worldwide face grave threats to their safety, autonomy, and independence. From censorship and harassment to violence and imprisonment, the obstacles confronting journalists in their pursuit of truth are manifold and profound.
In many parts of the world, journalists operate in environments characterized by repression and intimidation, where speaking truth to power carries grave risks. The chilling effect of censorship and state control stifles dissent, erodes public trust, and undermines the very foundations of democracy.
On this World Press Freedom Day, as we reflect on the pivotal role of journalists in shaping our understanding of the world, UNESCO unveils its latest initiative: the ‘This Story Must Be Told’ campaign. This campaign aims to spotlight the invaluable contributions of journalists and photojournalists who courageously uncover and share narratives that demand our attention.
In an era marked by the looming specters of climate change and biodiversity loss, journalists stand as frontline witnesses to the unfolding crises that threaten our planet’s well-being. Their unwavering dedication to truth-telling enables us to confront uncomfortable realities and, more importantly, inspires action toward a sustainable future.
One such tale, depicted in a moving photo from 2022, highlights the environmental forces’ ceaseless efforts in Iran’s Miankaleh Wetland. The image captures, the sombre chore of collecting bird carcasses, a terrible result of a sickness decimating bird populations. This site serves as a sobering reminder of the swift changes, in the environment, destroying the wetland and having catastrophic effects on many animal species.
In the meantime, another catastrophe occurs in Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park halfway around the world. During the sweltering grip of an El Niño-induced heatwave in November 2023, more than 100 elephants in this famous sanctuary perished from dehydration. The park, home to over 45,000 elephants, is in grave danger due to drought, which is made worse by the lack of significant rivers. A declining water table in Hwange’s reliance on solar-powered boreholes is in jeopardy, making it a sobering example of the pressing need for environmental care.
The voices of journalists like Privilege Musvanhiri and Mehdi Mohebipour, whose unshakable dedication to justice and the truth propels them to capture the core of the conflicts, facing our globe, are behind these stories. Mohebipour, a professional photographer from Northern Iran, uses striking images to highlight the human cost of environmental disasters. In the meantime, Harare, Zimbabwe-based freelance multi-media journalist Musvanhiri utilizes his platform to elevate the voices of communities affected by climate change.
Nevertheless, journalists are unfazed in their quest to expose injustice and hold those in positions of authority accountable. Their unrelenting bravery, tenacity, and commitment to seeking the truth is a light of hope in a world growing more complicated and unpredictable by the day.
Let us reaffirm our dedication to upholding the freedom of the press and safeguarding the rights of journalists on this World Press Freedom Day. Governments, civic society, and the general public all have a responsibility to protect media independence, guarantee journalist safety, and preserve the concept of information and expression as freedom.
While we appreciate the countless efforts of journalists and photojournalists worldwide and celebrate the priceless contributions, journalists make to our society, let’s also acknowledge the need for group action to address the structural issues, the press faces. Their bravery, tenacity, and unshakable dedication to speaking the truth are rays of hope in our fight for a more equitable and sustainable society. In addition to paying tribute to the sacrifices made by journalists in the past and present, we reaffirm our shared commitment to the values of democracy, justice, and human rights by supporting press freedom.
“Press freedom is our freedom,” UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay once said. We must unite to defend democracy since it is in jeopardy.” On this World Press Freedom Day, let us demonstrate our steadfast support for a free and independent press while also uniting with journalists around the globe. As a community, we respond to the call to action in these tales and strive toward a time where every person’s voice is heard and every story is shared.