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UN Secretary General: More than 150 journalists died last year

02 May 2007 12:55 (UTC +04:00)

â€œOver the past year, more than 150 media professionals have lost their lives in the line of duty. Other members of the press have been injured, detained, harassed or held hostage. This happens not just in the midst of armed conflict, but also in pursuit of stories on corruption, poverty and abuses of power. Most recently, I have been following with dismay the abduction of BBC journalist Alan Johnston. No cause is served, and any cause is undermined, by his continued captivity. I appeal again for Alan Johnstonâ€™s immediate and safe release,â€ he said.
Then secretary general stated that attacks on freedom of press are attacks against international law, against humanity, against freedom itself â€“ against everything the United Nations stands for. A free, secure and independent press is among the very foundations of democracy and peace. Governments, international organizations the media and civil society all have a role to play in upholding those foundations.
â€œOn World Press Freedom Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to this mission,â€ he underscored. /APA/