This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about World Press Freedom Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. World Press Freedom Day is observed on May 3rd.
Among the information you’ll find below: the history of World Press Freedom Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as intriguing facts you may want to know about World Press Freedom Day.
📅 What day is World Press Freedom Day 2024?
In 2024, World Press Freedom Day is on Wednesday, May 3rd. It is the 1st Wednesday in May; in 2024, it is Friday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all the cool details and facts about May 3, 2023, that you might not be aware of.
Every year on May 3, World Press Freedom Day is celebrated globally. This special day acknowledges and honors the important contributions made by journalists. The United Nations takes this opportunity to uphold the fundamental principles of press freedom worldwide. By commemorating World Press Freedom Day, journalists and advocates for democracy play a crucial role in defending the rights of freedom of expression, access to information, and media independence, all of which face ongoing threats worldwide. It is also a day to remember and pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives while fulfilling their duty. To mark this occasion, let us inspire and provide educational resources to individuals interested in becoming the voices of others.
📜 World Press Freedom Day History
In 1991, a group of African journalists gathered in Windhoek, Namibia, during a UNESCO meeting to make an appeal. They formulated the “Windhoek Declaration” with the aim of establishing a press that is free, independent, and diverse. As a response to this declaration, World Press Freedom Day was established in 1993 during the 26th session of the UNESCO General Conference. The day serves as a reminder that freedom of the press and speech are fundamental values for UNESCO, enabling dialogue and understanding that are essential for achieving lasting peace in today’s society. Unfortunately, numerous countries continue to censor, punish, suspend, and close down publications that challenge powerful individuals, while journalists face persecution, assault, and even murder. Each year, World Press Freedom Day focuses on a different theme, with “Journalism Under Digital Siege” being the chosen topic for 2022.
✅ World Press Freedom Day Facts
🔖 In Lebanon, it has few defenders
Just 28% of the Lebanese population considers press freedom to be of utmost importance.
🔖 Populists hate press freedom
Press freedom is valued by only 35% of individuals holding populist beliefs in Western nations.
🔖 The Greeks value it most
The majority of Greeks, about 90%, feel that it is extremely important for the media to have the freedom to publish news without any interference or control from the government.
👍 Why Is World Press Freedom Day Important
World Press Freedom Day contributes to increasing pressure on governments that censor and persecute the press. It is a significant impediment to authoritarianism.
Celebrate this day with pride. It demonstrates how much we value the public service provided by ethical journalists committed to the truth.
World Press Freedom Day is significant because it honors those who have given their lives to keep the public informed. It pays tribute to their memories and assures that their sacrifice was not in vain.
🙂 How To Observe World Press Freedom Day
⚡ Remember those who changed history
⚡ Organize conventions to publicize the day
The United Nations provides marketing materials and conducts research on the topic to support the event. On World Press Freedom Day, utilize these resources to organize get-togethers or engage in conversations with friends, family, and colleagues.
⚡ Learn to identify fake news
The press has been responsible for many deviations and shifts in recent history. Because of their good work, governments have fallen, conflicts have ended, and movements have risen. Today, remember all those who lost their lives to expose the truth and change the course of history.
📅 When is World Press Freedom Day?
| YEAR | DATE | DAY |
| 2024 | May 3 | Friday |
| 2025 | May 3 | Saturday |
| 2026 | May 3 | Sunday |
| 2027 | May 3 | Monday |
| 2028 | May 3 | Wednesday |
Explore all 🔗 May holidays, including 🔗 Special Interest and other 🔗 Awareness holidays.
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