Search

Edith Lederer is an award-winning reporter for the Associated Press with more than a half century of experience covering wars and political upheavals around the world. In this exclusive, she offers insight into why journalism matters for the public, explains the significance of World Press Freedom Day, and provides a glimpse at a life dedicated to the cause.

In the last 15 years 44 journalists were murdered for covering environmental issues. State actors (police, politicians) are the main perpetrators of violence. Private actors (including companies) are also involved. Without press freedom, citizens are left uninformed about the consequences of conflict. They must be allowed to do their jobs safely.

Video message by António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, on World Press Freedom Day.

The UN Human Rights Council-appointed independent expert on torture, Dr. Alice Edwards called on British authorities to consider Mr. Assange's appeal based on the substantial fears that, if extradited, he would be at risk of treatment amounting to torture or other forms of ill-treatment or punishment. Note: These rights experts work on a voluntary basis and are independent of any government or organization. They serve in their individual capacity, are not UN staff and do not receive payment for their work.

Remarks by Secretary General of the United Nations, António Guterres, on the deteriorating conditions in Gaza for humanitarian aid delivery.

Press conference by Guilherme Canela De Souza Godoi, UNESCO Head of the Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists section, on elections and crimes against journalists.

Comments to the media by Linda Thomas-Greenfield, Permanent Representative of the United States to the United Nations, in her national capacity, with Evan Gershkovich's parents and family, on the wrongful detentions in Russia.

Every year, 3 May is a date which celebrates the fundamental principles of press freedom, to evaluate press freedom around the world, to defend the media from attacks on their independence and to pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the exercise of their profession.

Every year, 3 May is a date which celebrates the fundamental principles of press freedom, to evaluate press freedom around the world, to defend the media from attacks on their independence and to pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the exercise of their profession.

Video Message by António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, on World Press Freedom Day (3 May) 2023.

Noon briefing by Stephanie Tremblay, Associate Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

(Continued) The Security Council will hold an open debate in connection with "The key role of strategic communications for efficient peacekeeping" under the agenda item "United Nations peacekeeping operations".