Today, May 3, is World Free Press Day. The day is being celebrated all over the world with various events, colorful programs and high hopes. But behind the glitter of the festival, a different picture emerges in the mirror of reality – gray, oppressed and tired of the weight of silence.
One of the strengths of media is telling the truth. But the pen that speaks out against injustice, at the end of the day, is often the voice that gets the most pressure. Even though they are active in protecting the rights of others, a strange silence often engulfs journalists when it comes to their own rights.
Stories of people’s laughter, tears, dreams and struggles are spread in every line of news. However, the imperfection, pain and unspoken words of the people writing those stories are buried in the unseen darkness.
Fear, compromise and the constant struggle for survival—among these three, many a brave voice fades away little by little every day. Some are lost in the crime of telling the truth, others are constantly forced into silent compromise with their ideals.
May the echoes of their invisible cries grow louder on this day.
Yet hope lives on — maybe one day the pen will truly be free, maybe that day the ink will no longer write stories of fear, but songs of courage and truth.
In that hope – a chest sigh, and a handful of immortal dreams.
On the occasion of World Free Press Day, we extend our sincere greetings and congratulations to all journalists, media workers and people engaged in gathering and disseminating news with deep respect and honor. Media is the fourth pillar of a state and society. The role of independent and responsible media is immense in uncovering the truth, shaping public opinion, protesting against corruption and injustice, protecting human rights and strengthening democracy.
A free and impartial media plays an important role in establishing transparency, accountability and justice in society. On this day, we remember those brave journalists, who continue to perform their duty in the face of various obstacles, intimidation, persecution and risk to reveal the truth. Their contribution is very valuable to the society and the state.
World Free Press Day reminds us—protecting the freedom of newspapers, television, online media and other media is not just the responsibility of journalists; Rather, it is the right and responsibility of every citizen.
We firmly believe that a humane, just and democratic society can be established if freedom of expression and freedom of press is ensured.
On this day we pledge that we will stand for truth, justice, human rights and independent journalism and play a conscious role in protecting media freedom.