Governments, wake up! Stop the attacks on truth-tellers
William Horsley, For the Executive Committee of the Commonwealth Journalists Association Message for World Press Freedom Day 2026
In Pakistan, the past year saw unacceptable police violence against journalists in the National Press Club, Islamabad. Across the world impunity creates climates of fear when brave journalists are killed but justice is denied. ENOUGH!
In October 2024, the 56 member countries of the Commonwealth, including Pakistan, responded to the demands of democratic people everywhere by agreeing to the Commonwealth Principles on Freedom of Expression and the Role of the Media. Those Principles commit Governments to protect freedom of the press in three important ways:-
- Ensure that police protect journalists from harm
- Align national laws with standards in international law, and
- End Impunity
The world is watching! THE TIME FOR ACTION IS NOW