In the context of the world's triple planetary crisis, climate change, biodiversity loss, and air pollution the world press pushes back.
World Press Freedom Day is an important occasion to reflect on the essential role of journalists in promoting transparency, accountability, and democracy. It's a day to acknowledge the sacrifices made by journalists who have faced censorship, harassment, and even violence in their pursuit of truth and justice. By shedding light on issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and social injustices, journalists play a vital role in raising awareness and inspiring action.
The dedication to uncovering stories and sharing diverse perspectives helps us better understand the world around us and fosters informed public discourse. As we commemorate World Press Freedom Day, let's reaffirm our commitment to upholding press freedom, defending the rights of journalists, and supporting independent media organizations. By doing so, we contribute to a more transparent, just, and democratic society for all.
All dis- and disinformation campaigns challenge knowledge and scientific research methods. Attacks on the validity of science pose a serious threat to pluralistic and informed public debate. Indeed, misleading and false information about climate change can, in some cases, foster doubt and incredulity about environmental issues, their impact, and urgency, and undermine international efforts to address them.
Dis- and misinformation about environmental issues can lead to a lack of public and political support for climate action, effective policies, and the protection of vulnerable communities affected by climate change, as well as of women and girls, as climate change tends to exacerbate existing inequalities.
To address this flood of disinformation in the digital ecosystem, UNESCO launched in November 2023 the Guidelines for the Governance of Digital Platforms. If implemented in their entirety, the Guidelines will empower all relevant stakeholders to put in place a governance system that can foster freedom of expression while tackling the negative externalities.