World Press Freedom Day

World Press Freedom Day is a significant observance designed to highlight the importance of press freedom in societies across the globe. It serves as a platform to celebrate the fundamental principles of freedom of the press, assess the state of press freedom throughout the world, defend media institutions from attacks on their independence and pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty. This observance underscores the crucial role that free and independent journalism plays in providing accurate information, strengthening democracy, and promoting human rights.

The United Nations General Assembly first proclaimed World Press Freedom Day in 1993 following a recommendation of UNESCO. Ever since, the Observance reaffirms the importance of respect for freedom of expression, one of the cornerstones of the European Union's democratic values. In the European context, World Press Freedom Day serves as an annual reminder of the EU's commitment to safeguarding media freedom and pluralism, as well as the protection of journalists. It reminds governments, institutions, and citizens of their duty to ensure a free and fair media landscape, and furthermore, to protect journalists from intimidation, threats, and violence.

Each year on May 3, World Press Freedom day is commemorated throughout the European Union in numerous ways. Events like discussions, conferences, and forums are organized to highlight the importance of media freedom and remember the journalists who put their lives at risk for their profession. The European Commission also orchestrates specific actions on this day, such as supporting projects that promote quality journalism and media literacy. World Press Freedom Day thus stands as a crucial pillar in EU's calendar, underlining the constant mission to protect and uphold democratic values in all member nations.