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World Press Freedom Day

Importance

Freedom of the press is significant for keeping people informed. A free press monitors the administration and forces them to work for the betterment of the country.

The press acts as a medium of communication between the government and the people. The free press has a huge responsibility of reporting the truth and shaping people's opinions. Hence to mark the importance of the press, World Press Freedom Day is celebrated every year.

Observance

World Press Freedom Day popularly known as World Press Day is one of the calendar events planned, organised and promoted by the United Nations, observed annually on May 3. The day is celebrated to raise awareness regarding the importance of freedom of the press. The day is reflection among media professionals about issues of press freedom and professional ethics.

 May 3rd, the World Press Freedom Day is a day of support for media which are targets for the restraint, or abolition, of press freedom. It is also a day of remembrance for those journalists who lost their lives in the pursuit of a story.

Theme

One of the themes of World Press Freedom Day says, "Journalism without Fear or Favour."

History

World Press Freedom Day was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in December 1993, following the recommendation of UNESCO's General Conference. Since then, 3 May, is celebrated as World Press Freedom Day.

World Press Freedom Day acts as a reminder to governments of the need to respect their commitment to press freedom.