STATEMENT BY THE UNITED NATIONS RESIDENT COORDINATOR IN MALAWI REBECCA ADDA-DONTOH ON WORLD PRESS FREEDOM DAY 2024

On this World Press Freedom Day, we celebrate the vital role of a free and independent media in upholding democracy, fostering social progress, and safeguarding human rights. As we commemorate this occasion, it is imperative to recognize the power of the media to shape narratives, ignite dialogue, and drive positive change in our society.

The theme for this year's World Press Freedom Day, "Guardians of Democracy: Championing Media Independence for Credible Elections," resonates deeply as Malawi prepares for its upcoming elections in 2025. The media serves as a cornerstone of democracy, providing citizens with essential information, facilitating transparent electoral processes, and holding those in power accountable for their actions. As we look ahead to this critical juncture, the role of the media in ensuring fair and equitable elections cannot be overstated.

Beyond its role in elections, the media plays a pivotal role in advancing sustainable development and promoting social inclusion. Through its reporting, the media shines a light on pressing issues such as poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation, raising awareness and mobilizing action towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and realizing Malawi's vision for 2063. However, challenges remain, particularly in regions where marginalized communities, such as persons with disabilities and the elderly, continue to face discrimination and violence. It is incumbent upon the media to amplify their voices, challenge stereotypes, and advocate for their rights.

Furthermore, as our planet grapples with the devastating impacts of climate change, the media serves as a critical ally in raising awareness and mobilizing action to address this existential threat. Events such as Cyclone Freddy in 2023 and the current El Niño phenomenon underscore the urgent need for collective action to mitigate the effects of climate change and build resilience in vulnerable communities. Through responsible reporting and advocacy, the media can elevate the discourse on environmental conservation and promote sustainable practices that protect our planet for future generations.

As highlighted by the United Nations Secretary General, António Guterres, "The world is going through an unprecedented environmental emergency which poses an existential threat to this and future generations. People need to know about this – and journalists and media workers have a key role in informing and educating them. Local, national, and global media outlets can highlight stories about the climate crisis, biodiversity loss, and environmental injustice."

In today's digital age, misinformation and disinformation pose significant challenges to informed decision-making and public discourse, particularly on issues as critical as climate change and environmental sustainability. Journalists and media workers have a pivotal role to play in combatting this phenomenon by adhering to rigorous fact-checking standards, promoting evidence-based reporting, and fostering media literacy among their audiences. By providing accurate, reliable, and scientifically sound information on the climate crisis, biodiversity loss, and environmental injustice, media outlets can empower individuals to make informed choices, advocate for policy changes, and drive collective action towards a more sustainable future for all.

As we reflect on the importance of press freedom, let us reaffirm our commitment to safeguarding the rights of journalists and media professionals around the world. Governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector must work together to create an enabling environment for a free and independent media, free from censorship, intimidation, and violence. Together, we can uphold the principles of press freedom and ensure that the media remains a powerful force for positive change in our society.

In conclusion, on this World Press Freedom Day, let us celebrate the invaluable contributions of journalists and media professionals and reaffirm our commitment to defending press freedom and promoting media independence. Together, we can create a world where the media serves as a beacon of truth, accountability, and justice for all.

The end.