Liberian journalists joined their colleagues in the world to observe World Press Freedom Day under the theme, “Shaping a Future of Rights: Freedom of expression as a driver for all other human rights.”
May 3 yearly acts as a reminder to governments of the need to respect their commitment to press freedom.
There were several solidarity messages to journalists across the world and among which was the U.S. Embassy in Monrovia which reminded the government that the Liberian media environment has never been freer, although economic difficulties cause some media houses to self-censor.
Joining journalists the world over yesterday, May 3, Ambassador Michael McCarty also expressed that freedom of the press and freedom of expression are core values of democratic nations, including the United States and Liberia.
McCarty said freedom of expression remains under threat in many parts of the world as authoritarian regimes use intimidation of the media and internet shutdowns, among other tactics, to prevent criticism, accountability, and transparency.
But Ambassador McCarthy while hailing the vibrancy of the Liberian media, referred to his recent press statement and said, “I’ve lived in many countries where that statement would not have been issued at all but as we celebrate the media’s essential contribution to Liberia’s democracy, we also remind journalists in Liberia and everywhere to stay true to ethics.”
He reiterated that accurate, clear, and fair reporting that seeks to inform the public should be the standard as professional integrity is the cornerstone of a journalist’s credibility and that without credibility; the media cannot contribute to a healthy democracy but rather provoke distrust and the spread of misinformation.
Meanwhile, 2023 marks the 30th anniversary of World Press Freedom Day since it was proclaimed in 1993 and the historic connection made between the freedoms to seek, impart and receive information and the public good remains as relevant as it was at the time of its signing 30 years ago.
However, in the United Nations message, it said media freedom, safety of journalists and freedom of expression are increasingly under attack, which impacts the fulfillment of other human rights citing multiple crises the international community faces such as conflicts and violence, persistent socio-economic inequalities driving migration, environmental crises and challenges to the health and wellbeing of people all around the world.
The UN said at the same time, disinformation and misinformation online and offline proliferate, with serious impact on the institutions underpinning democracy, the rule of law and human rights.
However, the UN reiterated that as it is also a day of reflection among media professionals about issues of press freedom and professional ethics, it is an opportunity to celebrate the fundamental principles of press freedom; assess the state of press freedom throughout the world; defend the media from attacks on their independence; and pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
The right to freedom of expression, enshrined in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, is a prerequisite and a driver to the enjoyment of all other human rights. This year’s Special 30th anniversary celebration of World Press Freedom Day is, therefore, a call to recentre press freedom, as well as independent, pluralistic and diverse media, as key to the enjoyment of all other human rights.
World Press Freedom Day was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in December 1993, following the recommendation of UNESCO’s General Conference. Since then, 3 May, the anniversary of the Declaration of Windhoek is celebrated worldwide as World Press Freedom Day.
Meanwhile, in Liberia, journalists’ observance of the day’s activities which was organized by the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) started with a parade from its headquarters to the Monrovia City Hall where an indoor program was held.
Atty Patmalia Doe-Paivey, serving as keynote speaker, thanked the media for the level of cooperation and work done so far in ensuring the sustenance of the country’s fragile peace.
She said despite the many challenges media institutions across the country are faced with, journalist in the country continue to made strides in ensuring that the citizenry is informed about is happening within the governance system of the country; something she applauded.
“I too was once a practicing journalist and I understand what it means to go about gathering news. So, today I want to add my voice to many voices to celebrate all journalists across the world for your sacrifices and work done this country,” she said.
Commenting on the sustainability of the Liberian media, Atty Doe-Paivey called on the government to begin doing business with the country’s local media as well as ensuring that their debts are settled with various media institutions.
She also called on media owners to see the need to pay reporters, whom according to her are the face of their respective institutions, at or above the minimum wage bill as means of motivation and accommodation.
Meanwhile, Doe-Paivey called on the leadership of the PUL to ensure the establishment of an Independent Media Commission, which she said will help greatly in the regulating the sector/profession.
PUL vice president, Daniel Nyakonah thanked his colleagues for always maintaining/organizing themselves in professional manner during their reportorial duty across the country.
Mr. Nyakona at the same assured journalists of his willingness to reconcile the PUL ahead of the country’s October 10, 2023 general elections, and assured, “I am willing and will accept the outcome of the Supreme Court ruling upon which I will begin the process of reconciliation for the sake of our noble Union.”
He called on journalists including his competitor from the just ended disputed PUL elections held in Gbarnga, Bong County to remain calm and await the final ruling of the Supreme Court, and to also accept the ruling of the court for the forward match of PUL.
