UN Secretary-General calls on to join forces to promote freedom of expression

Azerbaijan, Baku, April 23 / Trend K.Zarbaliyeva / UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has appealed to states on the occasion of the World Press Freedom Dayю Freedom of expression is one of most precious human rights, the UN Secretary-General said in his message. "It underpins every other freedom and provides a foundation for human dignity. Free, pluralistic and independent media is essential for its exercise," the message says. Ban Ki-moon said media freedom entails the freedom to hold opinions and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers, as stated in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This freedom is essential for healthy and vibrant societies. "Media freedom also faces severe pressures across the world. Last year, UNESCO condemned the killing of 62 journalists who died as a result of their work. These journalists must not be forgotten and these crimes should not remain unpunished. As media moves online, more online journalists, including bloggers, are being harassed, attacked, and killed for their work. They must receive the same protection as traditional media workers," the message says. The UN Secretary-General said the UN will continue to strengthen the legal foundations for free, pluralistic and independent media, especially in countries undergoing transformation or rebuilding after conflict. "At a time of information overload, we must help young people especially to develop critical skills and greater media literacy. World Press Freedom Day is our opportunity to raise the flag in the fight to advance media freedom," the message says. Do you have any feedback? Contact our journalist at agency@trend.az