Dutch Press Freedom advocate Jan Keulen message for World Press Freedom Day 3rd May,2024

This year World Press Freedom Day will be dedicated to the importance of journalism and freedom of expression in the context of the current global environmental crisis. 

I’m aware that environmental issues are of utmost importance in your country. Pakistan was hit two years ago with floods that wreaked unimaginable havoc. Climate-induced disasters continue to create a great deal of suffering and uncertainty. Communities have to be prepared and informed to deal with emergencies and find solutions. Hence the importance of good journalism.

Journalists are tasked to raise more awareness about environmental issues and their huge social, economic and political impact. For this it is important for journalists to take into account not only scientific concepts and perspectives, but also the insights of people and communities affected by climate change.

Wars and conflicts are also harming the environment.

This year we cannot avoid thinking about the heroic journalists in Gaza. The Palestinian journalists are witnessing unimaginable horrors, the destruction of their homes and country. They are covering the slaughter of their people and sometimes their own colleagues. The war in Gaza killed and injured an unprecedented number of journalists. And still our Palestinian colleagues are determined to document the atrocities and act as the ears and eyes of the world. Their professionality and dedication humble us and serves as a shining example for journalists worldwide.

Jan Keulen

Press Freedom Committee Dutch Syndicate of Journalists (NVJ) 

Netherlands