World Press Freedom Day 2025

 


World  Press Freedom Day was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in December 1993, following the recommendation of UNSECO's General Conference according to a release issued by the UN.  


World  Press Freedom Day 2025, focuses on how Artificial Intelligence(AI) affects Press Freedom, the free flow of information, media independence, and the global goal of ensuring access to information and protecting fundamental freedoms.


Explaining how  the rapid growth and use of AI is changing journalism and its advantages, UN  warns of  new risks like spreading misleading information, promotion of online hate speech and support new types of censorship. World body reveals that some agencies use  AI for mass surveillance of journalists and  citizens , creating very adverse impact on Freedom of expression.


It says big platforms use AI to filter and control what content is seen, making  them powerful gatekeepers of information. The UN Global Digital Compact says there are growing worries that AI may make global media too similar, reduce different viewpoints, and push out smaller media outlets.


According to one report, in 2024, at least 124 journalists were killed, with over half being Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank. Conflicts in Sudan, Mexico and Syria, also claimed lives, making journalism one of the world's deadliest professions.


World Press Freedom Day highlights the problems confronted by the media. Occasion  served to stress the role of media in democracy and threat the journalists face in many countries and challenges of AI driven misinformation. Protecting journalists requires global cooperation, stronger legal safeguards, and public support for independent media.


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