US Embassy, EU Delegation observe World Press Freedom Day

AMMAN — The US Embassy and the European Union Delegation to Jordan on Wednesday held a joint event in Amman to observe World Press Freedom day and raise awareness of the importance of freedom of opinion and expression. The event was attended by leading Jordanian journalists, academics and media students.

During the event, US Counsellor for Public Affairs, Stefanie Altman-Winans, and Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Jordan, Angela Martini, emphasised the importance of freedom of the press as a key component of democratic governance, according to a statement from the US Embassy in Amman.

By encouraging a free press, citizens are more informed, active and engaged in political decision-making, and can better hold their governments accountable, they stressed.

“On the 30th anniversary of World Press Freedom Day, we renew our commitment to promoting and protecting a free press, which is an essential pillar of democracy. We stand firm in support for this critical pillar of civil society that is shared with the EU and worldwide,” said the US Counsellor.

For her part, the Deputy Head of the EU Delegation noted: “Just by taking a look around us, we realise that freedom of the press and freedom of expression are under threat in many parts of the world. We reaffirm that the freedom of the press is a cornerstone of democracy and a fundamental right that needs to be protected, and that journalists should be able to carry out their work without fear of persecution or intimidation.”

The event provided an opportunity for the participants to discuss the challenges facing the media today, especially as freedom of expression is increasingly undermined by state and non-state interference around the world.

World Press Freedom Day — a day to reflect on the critical role of a free press in a democracy, recognises the extraordinary reporting in places of armed conflict like Ukraine, Sudan and Afghanistan. It acknowledges the sacrifices that media workers make risking their lives to bring truth to their audiences to help inform the public. 

“Today, we have come together to honour the many journalists and media actors who have dedicated their lives, often at great risk, especially women journalists who are particularly vulnerable to threats and increasing attacks, to promote transparency and accountability throughout the world.”  

“Since 1993, World Press Freedom Day has been marked on May 3, and that’s a chance for us to reaffirm the sacred principle that information is a public good, and that people have a right to know the truth about the leaders, events and policies that shape their lives.  And the journalists who bring them that information often do it at great risk to themselves,” Stefanie concluded.