Joint Declaration on World Day for Press Freedom

May 3, 2012: Freedom of expression is one of our most precious rights. It is the foundation for all other freedoms and the basic human dignity. Free media, independent and pluralist are essential to its exercise. This is the message for the Day dedicated to press freedom. A freedom which includes freedom to hold opinions and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers, as enshrined in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This freedom is essential for healthy and dynamic society.

The changes that have affected the Arab world have shown how to pursue their rights, using all available means of communication, whether traditional or new. The conquest of freedom of information promises to transform society through greater transparency and accountability, opening new avenues for communication and sharing of knowledge. Those that before were silent - especially youth - are now feeling their powerful voice, which is why this year's theme is New voices: the freedom of the media as a tool to transform society.

The freedom of the media must guard against serious pressure, all over the world. Last year, UNESCO condemned the killing of sixty-two journalists who lost their lives because carrying out their work. Their sacrifice must not be forgotten and these crimes should not go unpunished. With the advent of online journalism, journalists and bloggers are increasingly being targeted, intimidated and murdered because of their work. It 's time to receive the same protection enjoyed by colleagues who work in traditional media.

At the first meeting between UN agencies on the safety of journalists and impunity, which was held at UNESCO on 13 and 14 September 2011, was drawn up an action plan to enable the UN to create better conditions for everyone working in the field of information, anywhere in the world. At the same time, we will continue to strengthen the legal basis for free media, independent and pluralistic media, especially in those countries where changes in action or post-conflict reconstruction. During this time overburdened with information, we send a strong message to young people, to enable them to develop more critical thinking and participatory culture.

The World Day for Freedom of the press is the opportunity we have to raise the flag in the battle to promote freedom of the press. We turn to the states, professional printing and non-governmental organizations, in any part of the way they lie, join the UN to promote freedom of expression, according to internationally accepted principles. This is a pillar of individual rights, the foundation for a healthy society and a force for social transformation.