World Press Freedom Day

World Press Freedom Day is a global celebration of press freedom. The press plays a crucial role in public reporting, ensuring that people are informed about events happening around the world and in their own countries. Throughout history, many journalists have faced violence, threats, and violations of their rights. This holiday calls for support for press freedom and respect for journalists’ rights. It is observed every year on May 3.

History

Journalists are responsible for covering local and global events to keep the public informed. Journalism, in its early form, can be traced back centuries. It is known that ancient generals took specially trained individuals on their campaigns to record events and glorify their achievements. Upon returning home, these accounts were published or spread orally throughout the cities, shaping people’s understanding of past battles and changes in government.

The history of World Press Freedom Day began in 1991 when a group of African journalists presented a document at a UNESCO conference advocating for the principles of a free and independent press. Two years later, the UNESCO General Assembly declared World Press Freedom Day as an official holiday.

Interesting facts

• The press experienced a significant boom in 1455 when Johannes Gutenberg invented the first printing press.
• The French newspaper La Gazette was the first publication to include commercial advertisements.
• The first scientific journal, Journal des Savants, also appeared in France in 1665.

How to celebrate

If you have friends or family working in journalism, take the time to congratulate them and ask them about their experiences. Have they faced challenges or rights violations in their work? Try writing an article or covering an event yourself—experience what it’s like to be a journalist!

Share information about the holiday on social media and ask your followers what they think about the work of journalists. How do they feel about the profession?

When is World Press Freedom Day in 2025?

World Press Freedom Day is observed on May 3 each year.

Observations