
JAIPUR (Rajasthan), May 3 (ANI): Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma extended his greetings on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day on Saturday, emphasizing the indispensable role of independent journalism in safeguarding democratic values.
In a message shared on X, Chief Minister Sharma stated, “Heartfelt greetings to everyone on World Press Freedom Day. Independent journalism is the cornerstone of democracy, playing a vital role in empowering society. On this occasion, let us all come together and pledge to uphold the dignity and freedom of journalism.”
World Press Freedom Day was officially proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in December 1993, following a recommendation from UNESCO’s General Conference. Since then, May 3—the anniversary of the Declaration of Windhoek—has been globally observed as a day dedicated to press freedom.
This international observance serves as a powerful reminder to governments around the world to honor their commitments to press freedom. It also offers a moment of reflection for media professionals on the challenges facing journalism, including professional ethics and safety.
World Press Freedom Day stands as an opportunity to reaffirm the core principles of press freedom, assess its global state, advocate for the protection of independent media, and honor the sacrifices made by journalists who have died in the line of duty.
In commemoration of World Press Freedom Day 2025, Brussels will host a high-level global event on May 7 at the Bozar Centre for Fine Arts. Themed “Information as a Public Good in the Age of AI,” the one-day conference will convene international experts to discuss how artificial intelligence is reshaping the landscape of journalism and the implications for media freedom.
Preceding the main event, from May 5 to 6, Brussels will also host “Days of Action”—a series of independently organized activities led by civil society groups, academic institutions, and international organizations aimed at promoting media freedom and ensuring equitable access to information.