BisDaily.com: In a stark warning, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the unparalleled environmental emergency gripping the world, labeling it an existential threat to present and future generations. Guterres stressed the critical role of journalists and media workers in disseminating information and raising awareness about the climate crisis, biodiversity loss, and environmental injustice.
Guterres underscored the importance of media outlets at local, national, and global levels in highlighting stories that shed light on the plight of our planet, empowering individuals to take action for change. He acknowledged the invaluable role of journalists in documenting environmental degradation and holding accountable those responsible for environmental vandalism.
However, Guterres also lamented the perilous conditions faced by environmental journalists, citing instances of attacks, censorship, detention, and harassment. He cited UNESCO’s report of approximately 750 attacks on journalists and news outlets covering environmental issues over the past 15 years, with the frequency of such assaults on the rise.
Highlighting the broader risks faced by journalists worldwide, Guterres expressed shock and dismay at the high number of journalists killed in Israeli military operations in Gaza. He emphasized the crucial role of a free press in combating misinformation, ensuring accountability, and safeguarding democratic freedoms.
As the world all set to celebrate World Press Freedom Day on May 3, Guterres called on governments, the private sector, and civil society to reaffirm their commitment to protecting press freedom and the rights of journalists and media professionals globally. He stressed that press freedom is not a choice but a necessity for a free and informed society.
