In this age of technological advancement and internet, the space for free media is shrinking, the US Secretary of State, John Kerry, said today, urging governments across the world to take the necessary steps to foster an environment conducive to freedom of press.
"Journalists are increasingly confronted with the failure of governments to protect this freedom, and even as technology increases the possibilities for innovative expression online, the space for free media is shrinking," Kerry said in his remarks commemorating World Press Freedom Day.
The United States, he said, remains firmly committed to promoting and protecting press freedom, and to supporting United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO)'s dedication to freedom of expression across the globe.
"We call upon all governments to take the necessary steps to foster an environment where journalists can operate freely, independently, and without fear, and to release all imprisoned journalists wherever they are held," Kerry said.
Expressing solidarity with independent media in all corners of the world, and recalling journalists who have lost their lives and sacrificed their freedom or personal well-being, Kerry recognised and honoured those who fight against repressive regimes which target the press.
"In the United States, we hold press freedom as a fundamental component of our democratic fabric, enshrined in the First Amendment to our Constitution.
"However, in many countries, those who try to exercise their freedom of expression face repression and harassment, from financially crippling lawsuits to imprisonment and death," Kerry said.
