The Director General of UNESCO calls for protection of freedom of expression worldwide
May 3, 2011 - On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, 3 May, the Director General of UNESCO, Irina Bokova, called on all governments to keep their commitments to protect and promote press freedom and freedom of expression, basic pillars of any democratic society. On the governments of the Middle East and North Africa have a special responsibility to meet the aspirations of their peoples, especially in regard to freedom of expression, a basic human right widely claimed by the citizens of Egypt and Túnez.La Director General also expressed his deep concern over the continuing attacks correspondents of war and special correspondents covering social movements in the Middle East and North Africa.
"I note with satisfaction the progress made in recent months in relation to freedom of expression and the progressive end of restrictions on press freedom in Egypt and Tunisia," said Director General of UNESCO. "But also I urge the governments of the region to make more progress to meet the demands of its citizens and allow to fully enjoy the basic human right of freedom of expression. Freedom of opinion and freedom of writing are essential preconditions for the transition to democracy and good governance, "he added Bokova.
The Director General also spoke of his concern for the safety of journalists in the region in light of the information on the continuing attacks on reporters in Bahrain, Iraq, Libya, Syria and Yemen. Bokova was particularly concerned at reports of arrests, disappearances, intimidation, threats and physical violence they have suffered some of the journalists covering the protests.
"Silencing the media or intimidate is an unacceptable attack against the right of citizens to be informed," said the Director General. "I call on all countries in the world to respect the right to freedom of expression as stated in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the right to freedom of information."
Bokova also pledged to maintain and strengthen UNESCO's assistance to countries wishing to create a suitable environment for a media professional, free independent, especially when drafting a constitutional and legislative framework favorable to the practice and democratic standards.
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