KARACHI: The World Press Freedom Day is being marked on Friday.
A statement here on Thursday said that on this day, May 3, 2013, the Commonwealth Journalists Association (CJA) stands united with our colleagues around the globe who work around the clock to bring us the news, despite threats of imprisonment, violence and even death.
It said that today is the 20th anniversary of World Press Freedom Day, a date enshrined by the UN General Assembly as a way of remembering those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, to reflect upon press freedom, and to pledge anew to defend the media's independence.
The statement said that investigative journalism helps us to unearth truths about the powerful and those who hold public office, as well as the criminal. Yet it is increasingly under- funded and under threat.
It said that last December, the 54 member states of the Commonwealth adopted an historic document: a Charter of the Commonwealth. In assenting to this 'bill of core beliefs', each government committed to uphold "peaceful, open dialogue and the free flow of information, including through a free and responsible media.
Upholding this commitment is essential to safeguard the right of everyone to receive as well as impart information and opinions.
The CJA expects nothing less than unswerving attention to this proclamation. Governments must remember that a free media is a cornerstone of democratic society.
World Press Freedom Day reminds journalists and society that we must remain vigilant against old and emerging threats to those who report the news, the statement added.
It said that the Commonwealth Journalists Association is a voluntary professional association offering training and moral support to journalists in Commonwealth countries where the media lacks resources, comes under pressure from government and commercial interests, or suffers threats of violence.
<Center><b><i>Copyright APP (Associated Press of Pakistan), 2013</b></i></center>
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