As the world marks the World Press Freedom Day, a Nigeria-based media advocacy group, Media for Development Initiative (MDINIGERIA) expressed concern over multiple layers of challenges to freedom of expression.
In a statement issued by MDINIGERIA and signed by its Team Lead and Chief Executive Officer, Malam Ahmed Maiyaki; the group identifies fake news and misinformation as part of multiple layers that poses greater threat to freedom of expression as a driver to other human rights.
MDINIGERIA says this year’s theme of the celebration; “Shaping a Future of Rights: Freedom of expression as a driver for all other human rights” is not only instructive but timely as it signifies the enabling element of freedom of expression to enjoy and protect all other human rights.
“Though the World Press ranking of nations is key towards engendering democratic ideals and media freedom, however, fake news and misinformation have emerged as a greater threat to freedom of expression, media practice and enduring democracy.” MDINIGERIA observed.
The renowned media group therefore advised the media to be cautious of its sources through fact checking and verification to avoid credibility and reputational crises. Especially with new trends in new media, disinformation tactics such as doctored images or voice accusations spread by people using fake identities is spreading fast unethically.
According to MDINIGERIA, while the entire world is concerned over the risks faced by journalists in the practice of their job, we must also be concerned about the professional conducts of practitioners in shaping a future of rights by professional conduct and ethical journalism.
“Journalists must be guided by professional ethics and protection of public interest through accurate information gathering and dissemination that guarantees peace and stability; as a deliberate action of promoting freedom of expression” MDINIGERIA advised.
This year’s celebration is the 30th since the UN General Assembly’s decision proclaiming an international to freedom of expression.
