CEO Global Editors Network WPFD Message 2011

Paris: What happens in Pakistan is very important for press freedom worldwide: not a single week without an attack on a journalist or a media because of their work and the coverage of news. Imagine the following scenario: journalists leaving their job as it is considered too dangerous and self-censorship becoming the rule: why journalists should take risks if it is more safe to speak about gossips and daily
life rather than corruption and democracy?
We must avoid this worst case scenario and for that it is vital for international bodies to support Pakistani organisations and media struggling for a fair and balanced coverage of news. 3 May is an
important day for showing our solidarity with local newspapers or radios working in a very difficult environment. If press freedom restrictions happen in Pakistan today, they will happen everywhere tomorrow.

Bertrand Pecquerie 
CEO

Global Editors Network