The UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), has said no fewer than 102 journalists paid the supreme price in the course of their duties in 2016, saying, ‘murder remains the most tragic form of censorship.’
Director-General of UNESCO, Irina Bokova, made this known in a statement on Tuesday to mark the World Press Freedom Day commemorated on May 3. The theme for the 2017 Day is: ‘Critical Minds for Critical Times: Media’s role in advancing peaceful, just and inclusive societies’.
According to Bokova, “Far too often, murder remains the most tragic form of censorship – 102 journalists paid the ultimate price in 2016. This is unacceptable and weakens societies as a whole.”
She however noted that, the contributions of journalists to the rule of law, and taking forward the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, specifically, Sustainable Development Goal 16, to build just, peaceful and inclusive societies.
She also pointed out that, UNESCO is leading this work across the world, starting by standing up for the safety of journalists; stating further it is the reason UNESCO is spearheading the UN Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity with partners around the globe.
While emphasizing the need for Journalists to be objective in their reports, guided by high professional, ethical standards and a quality media education, she said the media must not only be a source of reliable information, it should provide a platform for a multitude of voices and mobilize new forces for tolerance and dialogue.
“We need media education combined with audiences that have the right media and information literacy skills.
“Today, I call on everyone to sharpen their minds to defend the freedoms that are essential for justice and peace. This is UNESCO’s message for the 2017 World Press Freedom Day,” she said.
May 3rd is set aside to celebrate the fundamental principles of press freedom; to evaluate press freedom around the world, and also to defend the media from attacks on their independence and to pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the course of doing their work.
