Promoting Independent Journalism, Media, Means Defending ‘Our Right to Truth’, Secretary-General Says in Video Message on World Press Freedom Day

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ video message for World Press Freedom Day, observed today:

A free press is essential for peace, justice and human rights for all.  It is crucial to building transparent and democratic societies and keeping those in power accountable.  It is vital for sustainable development.

Journalists and media workers shine a light on local and global challenges and tell the stories that need to be told.  Their service to the public is invaluable.

Laws that protect independent journalism, freedom of expression and the right to information need to be adopted, implemented and enforced.  Crimes against journalists must be prosecuted.

On World Press Freedom Day 2018, I call on Governments to strengthen press freedom and to protect journalists.  Promoting a free press is standing up for our right to truth.