The Global Conference for Press Freedom, held by the British and Canadian governments, became the pillar in the campaign to promote the protection of journalists while carrying out their duties. The conference also sought to promote press freedom across the world.
The event brings together more than 1,500 participants, including ministers, government officials, diplomatic communities, international organizations, journalists, civil members of society and academics. Challenges against the media and opportunities that can be created to promote a safer environment for journalists are also part of the discussion.
Freedom of the press is a universal principle, British Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs Jeremy Hunt said in his opening speech at the conference.
Media freedom is not a western value, but rather, it is the best universal principle to protect the people from abuse of power and help countries explore their potentials, he believed.
Furthermore, strong protection against the dark side of power came from accountability and the role of the media as a watchdog, he said.
The Global Conference for Press Freedom is also being attended by Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland and the British Secretary of State Special Envoy for Press Freedom, Amal Clooney.
Participants from more than 100 countries, including 60 ministers and more than 1,500 journalists are also attending the event.
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Translator: Zeynita Gibbons, Aria Cindyara
Editor: Azizah Fitriyanti
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