World Press Freedom Day, don't let the news be silent

Freedom of the press is a form of freedom of speech, which provides citizens with a way to acquire knowledge and information. Therefore, the maintenance of any political system is based on the will of the people.

Members of the media expressed their protest against arrest and seizure of journalists in Panama by wrapping the tape around their mouths. (Submitted report)

Freedom of the press is a form of freedom of speech, which provides citizens with a way to acquire knowledge and information. Therefore, the maintenance of any political system is based on the will of the people. On May 3, we celebrated the World Press Freedom Day, which takes into account the importance of freedom of the press and, in accordance with 19 articles on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, reminds the Government of its mandated duty to respect and uphold the right to freedom of expression.

World Press Freedom Day serves not only to emphasize the importance of an open press, it also carries the role of a reminder, in dozens of countries around the world, to review, fine, suspend and close the publication; and in many countries, journalists, editors and publishers and bloggers are harassed, attacked, imprisoned and even murdered. It aims to remind Governments to respect their commitment to press freedom and journalists. This day, of course, is also used to alert professional social responsibility and the importance of maintaining professional ethics. Also this day is to support those who aim to censor or cancel the freedom of the press. And to commemorate the journalists who gave their lives in their careers.

Former Philippine president Corazon has stated that "the freedom of the press has ensured the public's participation in government decisions and actions, and also the importance of people's participation in democracy." ”
The freedom of the press is sometimes called the fourth pillar of democracy, because it can report abuses of government officials. He also exposes government policymakers and people who influence them. It enables citizens to have access to news messages that criticize the government, giving them the opportunity to exchange information and public affairs that are not interfered with by government officials. It also prompted them to put pressure on the government to correct the mistakes.

As President of the United States Supreme Court, David Phillips, said: "The freedom of the press is not its purpose, but a means, which is ultimately to obtain a free society." ”

Silent News means the end of democracy.

Translator: Zanzanfirst Original author: unknown