Ranjan K Baruah
We have freedom of expression which means we can express what we want to express. In fact, freedom of expression is a fundamental human right as stated in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Though there are restrictions in few countries but most countries could be seen where freedom of expression is respected.
This freedom may be individual freedom or media freedom.
When we talk about media freedom then it is also connected to access to information.
In order to make media freedom a reality there must be legal and regulatory environment that allows for an open and pluralistic media sector to emerge.
When we talk about media freedom then we have to also look at media ethics or how information or expression is being used. With ethical and professional standards media serves as a watchdog, civil society engages with authorities and decision-makers, information flows through and between communities.
Media freedom or press freedom can’t be seen without freedom of information. Freedoms of information laws, which permit access to public information, are essential.
Information can change the way we see the world around us, our place in it, and how to adjust our lives in order to maximize the benefits available through our local resources.
Freedom of information and the transparency it promotes, has a direct consequence on fighting corruption, which in turn has a tangible impact on development.
Ensuring freedom for the media around the world is a priority. Independent, free and pluralistic media are central to good governance in democracies that are young and old. There is no doubt that free media can ensure transparency, accountability and the rule of law and promote participation in public and political discourse and after all help in bring sustainable change.
World Press Freedom Day was proclaimed by the United Nations 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.
UNESCO is launching a global campaign on media and social media channels, with a focus on “Journalism without Fear or Favour” in an increasingly complex media landscape.
May 3 acts as a reminder to governments of the need to respect their commitment to press freedom. It is also a day of reflection among media professionals about issues of press freedom and professional ethics.
The day 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.
At present when all are worried with coronavirus there are people who are working in frontlines and like health professionals many media professionals are also working to bring and present news in front of us.
Media persons are also taking risk at the time when all are locked inside their homes. And it is time to stop misinformation related to coronavirus. Let us respect all media persons who are helping us to get updates information related to COVID-19.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres on his message said that “journalists and media workers are crucial to helping us make informed decisions. As the world fights the COVID-19 pandemic, those decisions can make the difference between life and death.”
He also added that “the press provides the antidote: verified, scientific, fact-based news and analysis. Today, we thank the media for providing facts and analysis; for holding leaders – in every sector – accountable; and for speaking truth to power.” UN Secretary General also called on governments to protect media workers, and to strengthen and maintain press freedom, which is essential for a future of peace, justice and human rights for all”.
Though we know about freedom of expression and as social media is on rise, we must be careful with any misinformation.
We must make sure that no fake news or misinformation is posted by any one which might harm individuals and societies.
UNESCO and UNDP join forces to promote verified information against COVID 19. UNESCO invites the media, journalists, government agencies, organized civil societies and digital influencers to share among their audiences’ practices that promote verified management of the content circulating on social media.
(With direct inputs from UN publication. Feedback may be sent to [email protected].)
– The author is a career mentor, motivational speaker and skill trainer.