World Press Freedom Day

World Press Freedom Day Quick Facts - AU

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2024 Date	3 May 2024
2025 Date	3 May 2025

2024 Holidays & Dates

		Australian & Common Holidays
		Misc. & Int'l. Observances
		Christian Holidays
		Jewish Holidays

World Press Freedom Day in

Friday, 3 May

Days to go:

World Press Freedom Day is a global initiative aimed at promoting and protecting the independence of media and the rights of journalists. It serves as a reminder of governments to uphold freedom of expression and journalistic integrity, and tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty. The observance primarily focuses on the significance of press freedom, its persistent challenges, the defence of media from attacks, and paying tribute to journalists who have sacrificed their lives in pursuit of truths.

World Press Freedom Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in December 1993, following the recommendation of UNESCO’s General Conference. In Australia, the relevance of this observance is reflected in the ongoing discussions and actions concerning the integrity of public broadcasting, the safety of journalists, legislation affecting journalistic freedoms, and debates on laws regarding whistle-blower protections and national security. It marks an important time to address any challenges and limitations that impact the Australian press and its freedom.

Observation of World Press Freedom Day in Australia is marked by numerous activities. The broad spectrum of media, journalism bodies, and non-government organisations host events ranging from debates, discussions, press conferences, and workshops, to awards recognising journalistic contributions to press freedom. The focus invariably remains on encouraging dialogue and participation related to press freedom and journalism ethics. The specific date of observation consistently remains on May 3rd, aligning with the global community to highlight the values of free press and acknowledging its pivotal role in promoting democracy, accountability, and openness of our society.

Facts about World Press Freedom Day

The theme for World Press Freedom Day in 2022 was Journalism under Surveillance.
According to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers. – Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

In the News and Trending in Australia for World Press Freedom Day

Updated 05:38 Investigative Journalists on World Press Freedom Day

gijn.org

Press Freedom Represents ‘Very Lifeblood of Human Rights’, Says Secretary-General in Message for International Day

un.org

World Press Freedom Day: U.S, UK want answers over killing of journalist Allen - Eye Radio

eyeradio.org

Mahoney: UN can help journalists beyond World Press Freedom Day - Committee to Protect Journalists

cpj.org

Top things to do in Australia for World Press Freedom Day

Get your inner journalist active on social media. The internet has given birth to a citizen journalist movement that harnesses the power of millions who previously had no voice. We all have cameras in our pockets and access to an audience of millions on social media.
Attend an event. There are dozens of events celebrating WPFD, these conferences bring together journalists and media workers to discuss current issues. UNESCO offers more info.
Explore the Australian Press Freedom Tracker, an online database that documents incidents of press freedom violations in Australia. For more information, check out Press Freedom Tracker
Visit the National Library of Australia. Located in Parkes, the library holds collections of historic Australian newspapers and documents that highlight the evolution of press freedom in Australia.