On World Press Freedom Day, which fell on May 3, 2024, Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken released a statement in honor of the importance of journalism and the crucial role that a free and independent media plays in democratic societies. The year 2023 saw an increase in the number of journalists killed globally, highlighting the risks they take in their pursuit of truth.
The free flow of accurate information, ideas, and dissenting opinions is essential for transparent and inclusive governance. However, journalists continue to face unprecedented dangers in their work. Authoritarian governments and non-state actors use disinformation and propaganda to undermine social discourse and hinder journalists from informing the public and holding governments accountable.
Governments that fear truthful reporting often target individual journalists through the misuse of commercial spyware and surveillance technologies. It is important that every nation takes action to protect journalists and uphold the importance of a free and independent media worldwide. In response to this call to action, the U.S Mission Chile, along with the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, reaffirmed its unwavering support for press freedom on this important day.
In conclusion, on World Press Freedom Day we must recognize the vital role that journalism plays in maintaining transparency and democracy worldwide. We must also acknowledge the dangers that journalists face in their pursuit of truth and call upon governments to take action to protect them so that they can continue to report accurately without fear or intimidation.
