KAKATA, Margibi County — The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has called for renewed national commitment to press freedom, journalist safety, and responsible media practice, as Liberia joined the global community in observing World Press Freedom Day.
Delivering the keynote address at the official celebration in Kakata, UNDP Resident Representative Aliou Mamadou Dia emphasized that a free and independent press remains central to democratic governance, human rights, and sustainable development.
“A free press is the backbone of democracy—it promotes accountability, amplifies voices, and strengthens institutions,” Dia said.
A Timely Theme Amid Growing Challenges
Reflecting on this year’s global theme, “Shaping a World at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Security, and Development,” Dia noted that the message resonates strongly in the face of increasing pressures on journalists both globally and within Liberia.
He commended Liberian media practitioners for their resilience in promoting transparency and public accountability, despite challenges including safety risks, financial constraints, and the growing spread of misinformation.
“Liberia’s media continues to stand firm in the face of adversity, ensuring that citizens remain informed and engaged,” he noted.
Journalist Safety ‘Non-Negotiable’
The UNDP official stressed that the safety and protection of journalists must remain a national priority.
“No journalist should be intimidated, harassed, or harmed for doing their job,” Dia declared, describing the protection of media practitioners as a shared responsibility of government, security institutions, and society at large.
He warned that threats against journalists undermine not only press freedom but also the broader democratic space.
Balancing Freedom with Responsibility
Dia also highlighted the dual role of the media—freedom and responsibility—urging journalists to uphold ethical standards, accuracy, and professionalism.
He cautioned against sensationalism and called on media institutions to actively combat misinformation and hate speech, noting that responsible journalism is essential to maintaining public trust.
“Press freedom must go hand in hand with professionalism and integrity,” he emphasized.
Support for Media Development
The UNDP Resident Representative praised the Government of Liberia for its continued support to press freedom and its collaboration with stakeholders to strengthen democratic governance.
He outlined several UNDP-supported initiatives aimed at strengthening Liberia’s media sector, including:
- Enhancing electoral transparency through the Liberia Electoral Support Project
- Supporting investigative journalism to combat corruption
- Promoting cooperation between media and law enforcement
- Building digital resilience to counter misinformation
Call for Collective Action
Concluding his remarks, Dia urged all stakeholders—including government, media institutions, civil society, and citizens—to work collectively to safeguard press freedom and promote a peaceful, inclusive society.
“Protecting press freedom is not the responsibility of journalists alone—it is a collective duty,” he said.
He reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to supporting Liberia’s media sector as a key pillar of democracy, human rights, and national development.
The Kakata event formed part of Liberia’s official activities marking World Press Freedom Day, bringing together journalists, policymakers, and development partners to reflect on progress and challenges within the media landscape.
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