UN chief urges govts to protect media workers

In this file photo taken on 24 February 2020 UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres looks on at the opening of the UN Human Rights Council's main annual session in Geneva.Photo: AFP

UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres has called on governments to protect media workers and strengthen press freedom, which is essential for a future of peace, justice and human rights for all.

"We particularly recognise those who are playing a life-saving role reporting on public health," he said in a message marking the World Press Freedom Day that falls on 3 May.

The UN chief said journalists and media workers are crucial to helping all make informed decisions. "As the world fights the COVID-19 pandemic, those decisions can make the difference between life and death."

He called on governments -- and others -- to guarantee that journalists can do their jobs throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.

As the pandemic spreads, the UN chief said, it has also given a rise to a second pandemic of misinformation, from harmful health advice to wild conspiracy theories.

He said the press provides the antidote: verified, scientific, fact-based news and analysis.

But since the pandemic began, many journalists are being subjected to increased restrictions and punishments simply for doing their jobs.

Guterres said temporary constraints on freedom of movement are essential to beat COVID-19.

But, he said, they must not be abused as an excuse to crack down on journalists’ ability to do their work.

"Today, we thank the media for providing facts and analysis; for holding leaders – in every sector – accountable; and for speaking truth to power," said Guterres.