“When we protect journalists, their words and pictures can protect our worlds”

On this World Press Freedom Day, UN Secretary General António Guterres is emphasizing the need to protect the rights of media professionals.

In his message, Guterres said governments must respect journalists and media freedoms to advance global peace.

South Sudan ranks 145th out of 180 countries in a press freedom survey released last week by Reporters without Borders.

Every year, 03 May is a date, which celebrates the fundamental principles of press freedom; to evaluate press freedom around the world, to defend the media from attacks on their independence and to pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the exercise of their profession.

This year’s global theme is “Critical Mind for Critical Times: Media’s role in Advancing Peaceful, Just and Inclusive Societies,” while in South Sudan the theme is “Freedom of Expression to promote peaceful, just and inclusive societies”

We bring you the Secretary-General's message.