UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said digital technology creates new channels for oppression and abuse.
“Many journalists and editors around the world are at constant risk of their programs and reports being taken offline,” he made the statement on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day on Tuesday.
He said digital technology has democratized access to information but it has also created serious challenges.
“Media workers in war zones are threatened not only by bombs and bullets but by the weapons of falsification and disinformation that accompany modern warfare. They may be attacked as the enemy, accused of espionage, detained, or killed, simply for doing their jobs,” the UN chief said.
The United Nations (UN) shines a spotlight on the essential work of journalists and other media workers who seek transparency and accountability from those in power, often at great personal risk.
Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, many media workers have been on the frontlines, providing accurate, science-based reporting to inform decision-makers and save lives.
At the same time, journalists who cover climate, biodiversity and pollution have succeeded in bringing global attention to this triple planetary crisis. But the threats to the freedom of journalists and media workers are growing by the day, Antonio Guterres said.
Without freedom of the press, there are no real democratic societies. Without freedom of the press, there is no freedom, said the statement.
The UN is working to support journalists and media workers everywhere. Ten years ago, it established a Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists, to protect media workers and end impunity for crimes committed against them.
On World Press Freedom Day, UN honours the essential work of the media in speaking truth to power, exposing lies, and building strong, resilient institutions and societies, the statement read.
UN also called on governments, media organizations and technology companies everywhere to support these crucial efforts.
